Breast health

Breast cancer screenings

At our network of hospitals, we recommend regular screenings to catch breast cancer early, when it is most treatable. The board-certified radiologists at our breast imaging program have focused expertise in breast imaging, ensuring accurate diagnosis and precise treatment. We offer convenient locations throughout the region, and give you access to mammography, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) services.

To schedule your mammogram or other imaging service, call our us at (828) 213-9729 (XRAY).

We encourage you to be an active participant in your own health care. Having your breast imaging services at one of our locations ensures state-of-the-art quality breast imaging and diagnostic services including mammography and breast ultrasound. Select locations are now offering 3D mammography, breast MRI and interventional breast procedures as well.

3D whole breast ultrasound (ABUS)

3D whole breast ultrasound, also known as ABUS, gives us the ability to provide the some of the most advanced technologies for screening dense breasts. In conjunction with a mammogram, ABUS offers a better chance to diagnose breast cancer early at a more treatable stage.

Approximately 40 percent of women have dense breasts, which means there is more dense tissue than fat in the breasts. Dense breasts are a risk factor because it is harder to detect breast cancer with a standard mammography exam alone. ABUS improves cancer detection over mammography alone in women with dense breasts.

Our high-risk breast cancer screening clinic

Our program's high-risk clinic is a comprehensive program dedicated to identifying if you are at a higher risk for breast and ovarian cancer. We initiate timely screenings to identify cancer as early as possible and develop personalized strategies to reduce your risk.

Who should be evaluated at the high-risk clinic?

If you think you might be at a higher risk for breast cancer, consider coming to the clinic if you have:

• Ashkenazi Jewish Heritage
• Family members with breast cancer gene 1(BRCA1) or breast cancer gene 2(BRCA2)
• Family members with ovarian cancer
• First-degree relatives with breast cancer (mother, sister, father)
• More than two family members on one side of the family (mother or father) with breast cancer
• Multiple family members with cancer
• Past breast biopsies showing atypical lobular or ductal hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)
• Relatives with breast cancer younger than age 50

What can you expect from your visit?

At your visit, you will be evaluated by a physician who will obtain a family and personal history, then perform a breast exam. We will create a personalized plan with recommendations for screenings, follow-up exams and risk-reduction measures. You may be referred for additional exams, genetic counseling or nutrition services as well.

Do I need a referral from my doctor?

You do not need a referral to be seen in the clinic. Your primary care doctor will be informed of your visit, and will receive a copy of your recommendations.

The high-risk breast clinic seeks to empower women to evaluate their breast cancer risks and take control of their health. Our primary objectives are to help you reduce risk factors and fear of breast cancer. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (828) 670-5665.

Breast cancer care

If you receive a breast cancer diagnosis, we are here to provide you with the treatment and support you need. The highly skilled oncologists in our breast cancer program work with an interdisciplinary team of specialists to create your treatment plan. Our hospitals offer evidence-based, time-tested treatments alongside innovative surgery and therapy options. We also offer a nurse navigator who will guide you through your entire journey while connecting you and your family to support resources.