Gina Noe
Breast cancer will affect an average of one in eight women sometime in their lifetime. It is the second-most common cause of cancer related deaths in women. Numerous studies prove that early detection is a vital component in the successful treatment of breast cancer.
Mammograms play a central part in the early detection of breast cancer because they can detect changes in the breast that may be early signs of cancer, but are too small or subtle to be felt. The use of mammography has greatly enhanced the ability to detect breast cancer at earlier stages. Now a new technology called full field digital mammography shows great promise in the fight against breast cancer.
At the next “Hot Women and Health” session on Tuesday, March 17, a representative from Pattie A. Clay Regional Medical Center will explain digital mammography. The program will be from 10 to 11 a.m. and will include a brunch. Cost is $3; seating is limited, so call 623-4072 to register by Tuesday. The program will be conducted at the Madison County Extension Education Center on Duncannon Lane.
From a patient’s point of view, having a digital mammogram is very much like having a conventional screen-film mammogram. Film-based and digital mammography both use compression and X-rays to create clear images of the inside of the breast.
Unlike film-based mammography, digital mammograms produce images that appear on the technologist’s monitor in a matter of seconds. There is no waiting for film to develop, which can mean a shorter time spent in the breast imaging suite.
With digital mammography, the radiologist reviews electronic images of the breast, using special high-resolution monitors. The physician can adjust the images to focus on specific areas of interest. Digital images also can be transmitted quickly across a network and can be easily copied and stored, eliminating dependence on only one set of “original” films.
For more information on digital mammography attend the session March 17.
The Madison County Extension Homemakers hosted their annual International Tea for students and faculty at EKU Feb. 16. More than 75 students representing more than 30 countries attended. They were treated to variety of foods prepared by Extension Homemakers. The purpose of the tea is to promote friendships within the community with international students and faculty from other cultures. Thanks to everyone who helped with the event.
Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of race, color, age, sex, religion, disability or national origin.
