A mammogram uses low doses of X-ray radiation to detect and diagnose diseases in the breast, including breast cancer. Tanner Breast Health uses both screening and diagnostic mammograms for patients.

Do you need a mammogram?

The breast cancer specialists at Tanner Cancer Care recommend you have a baseline screening mammogram between the ages of 35 and 40. You should begin receiving an annual screening mammogram beginning at the age of 40.

Although mammograms are effective in screening for breast cancer, if you have risk factors — such as having a close relative who has breast cancer or if you are genetically predisposed for breast cancer — you should discuss an appropriate screening program with your doctor. Knowing your risk factors for breast cancer, your doctor can best advice on screenings that are right for you.

Special Instructions:

• Do not use deodorant, lotions or creams in the breast area or under arms on the day of your mammogram.

• Consult your physician with pain or tenderness in the breast, nipple changes or discharge, and lumps or other breast issues.

Diagnostic mammograms

Following an abnormal screening mammogram or symptoms that might indicate breast cancer, your doctor will order a diagnostic mammogram to get additional, more detailed images of your breast tissue. 

Your doctor may then recommend further testing to determine if the suspicious finding is in fact cancer.

3D digital mammography

Because of its advanced imaging capabilities, 3D mammography is our preferred standard for mammogram screening and breast cancer detection.

Getting a 3D mammogram is similar to having a standard 2D mammogram. However, while standard 2D mammograms use only two X-ray images of the breast tissue, 3D mammograms provide radiologists with multiple, thin-section images, allowing them to evaluate breast tissue layer by layer and better identify possible areas of concern.

Clearer, more detailed images can lead to better rates of detection and more accurate diagnoses, reducing the likelihood of false exam results or the need for patients to return for additional studies.

3D mammography is approved for all women who would otherwise undergo a standard mammogram for screening and diagnostic testing.

Tanner Breast Health has the latest mammogram technology, offering 3D mammograms in Carrollton, Villa Rica and Bremen.

The mobile unit is designed for comfort and privacy in mind. It features the latest in digital mammography, administered by an all-woman team of certified mammogram technologists.

To schedule a mammogram aboard the unit or host it at your business, church or community event, call  770-812-9721 .