Regular breast cancer screening is key to catching breast cancer early, while it is easier to treat successfully. “Breast cancer screening saves lives,” said Sunny Mitchell, MD, FACS, Medical Director of The Breast Center at Montefiore Nyack Hospital and Breast Surgeon with Highland Medical.

Women at average risk of breast cancer should start annual breast screening at age 40, Dr. Mitchell advises. Women at higher risk of breast cancer, ie a family history of breast cancer, a genetic predisposition (ie BRCA 1 or 2), prior biopsy with high risk findings, may be advised to start screening before age 40.

The Breast Center at Montefiore Nyack Hospital utilizes 3-D mammogram, which is more effective than a 2-D mammogram in detecting earlier cancers, and may decrease the need for women to get called back for additional mammography/ images. This type of mammogram is also very good tool for women with dense breasts.

If a woman is found to have dense breasts on her mammogram, an ultrasound may be recommended to complement breast screening. A breast MRI may also be recommended for some women. 

As part of our ongoing efforts to keep our patients healthy and feeling safe, masks are required for patients and staff upon entry to The Breast Center at Montefiore Nyack Hospital.