Screening for Breast Cancer Saves Lives

Santa Rosa Medical Center’s Digital Mammography Department screens patients for breast cancer by performing a fast, simple mammogram, which is an X-ray of the breast.

Mammograms are the best method to detect breast cancer early when it is easier to treat and before it is big enough to be felt as a lump or cause symptoms. Mammograms can sometimes detect breast cancer years before it is detected by a self-breast exam or by a physician's exam.

Keep in mind that:

•Having regular mammograms is proven to lower the risk of dying from breast cancer.
•Mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer.
•Medicare, Medicaid, & most health insurance companies pay for the cost of mammograms.
•A physician's order is required for all exams.
•Appointments are required for all exams and procedures.  

To Schedule an Appointment Call (850) 626-5130 
For Information Call The Women's Place: (850) 626-5272
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Schedule an Appointment

A physician's order/prescription is required for all exams and should be obtained before scheduling an appointment. Appointments are required for mammograms and can be made by calling (850) 626-5130 Monday through Friday from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM.  

To find a qualified, local physician search our Physician Directory.

Who Should Have a Mammogram?

Nobody is too young or too old for breast cancer. Therefore routine screening mammograms are appropriate for women starting at the age of 35. Some women that have family histories or other risk factors for breast cancer may start screening at a younger age. You should talk to your doctor if someone in your immediate family develops breast cancer or if you are concerned about developing breast cancer. It is very important for women 50 years old and older to have a screening mammogram at least every two years.  

Women who are pregnant should not have a mammogram. Tell your physician and the hospital staff if you are pregnant, or suspect that you may be pregnant.

Types of Mammograms

There are two types of mammograms: screening and diagnostic. Both types of exams require a doctor’s order/prescription.  

Screening mammograms are given routinely to women who appear to be healthy and have no signs of breast problems. Their purpose is to find breast cancer early, before any symptoms can develop at a time when the cancer is usually easier to treat.  

Diagnostic mammograms are for women who have suspicion regarding a breast problem, such as a lump or nipple discharge.  Women with such concerns should contact their physician immediately who will order a diagnostic mammogram. Eighty percent of all breast lumps are non-cancerous and mammograms help distinguish between cancerous and non-cancerous lumps. When cancer is present, diagnostic tests are performed to gather more information useful for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Helpful Links

American Cancer Society - The American Cancer Society is a nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, the ACS has 13 chartered Divisions and more than 3,400 local offices. 

BreastCancer.org - Breastcancer.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing the most reliable, complete, and up-to-date information about breast cancer. 

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation - The world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists works together to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all, and energize science to find the cures. 

CancerCare - A national nonprofit organization that provides free, professional support services for anyone affected by cancer.

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