Ask anyone who has had a breast cancer diagnosis and they’ll tell you, “A mammogram can save a life.” On each Monday through Nov. 4, Abrazo Central Campus is extending its hours for mammography appointments for those who need a little extra time after a workday.

The Breast Health Center at Abrazo Central Campus, 2000 W. Bethany Home Rd., will be open until 7 pm on Mondays each week on Oct. 14, 21 and 28, and on Nov. 4.

“October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and with regular screenings, advanced technologies are leading to more accurate diagnoses so breast cancer can be detected and treated in its earliest stages,” says Sherry Gage, director of oncology services at Abrazo Central Campus.

Gage, herself a breast cancer survivor who notes she was diagnosed at age 40 during a routine screening mammogram, says that about 80 percent of breast cancers occur in women with no family history or known risk factors. Cancers in younger women tend to be more aggressive, she says, so early detection is critical. 

She adds that the American Society of Breast Surgeons and the American College of Radiology recommend screenings as early as age 40, but those with a family history may consider being screened sooner. For women at high risk or who have been found to be positive for the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, screening should begin between the ages of 25 and 30. 

“If patients understand their diagnosis and care, they are more capable of accepting the care needed and maintaining family, work and social requirements of their journey through cancer. Battling any type of cancer is a team effort among the patient, physicians, caregivers, family and friends,” says Gage. 

Abrazo Central Campus offers 3D mammography in a calming, upscale environment. The hospital’s Breast Health Center is decorated in a soothing theme with a warm, quiet environment, with private dressing areas and a relaxing lounge area. 

“Three-dimensional mammography has proven to significantly increase detection of early-stage breast cancer,” adds Gage. “Patients often can’t tell the difference during their screening, but a key benefit of 3D mammography is its ability to determine overlapping tissue that on 2D could look like a suspicious area. The 3D technology is more precise, allowing physicians to view each layer of tissue in the breast. This decreases the likelihood of return visits for more tests.  

“The progress of the breast cancer awareness movement is undeniable. Still, women should be proactive about knowing their breast density and risk assessment value, and no matter their schedule, make time to get screened annually.” 

MAMMO MONDAYS at ABRAZO CENTRAL CAMPUS

• Extended hours for mammography services

• Mondays on Oct. 14, 21 and 28, and Nov. 4

• 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

• Abrazo Central Campus

• 2000 W. Bethany Home Rd., Phoenix, Ariz. 85015

• Call 844-808-6370 to schedule a mammogram

• Or visit AbrazoHealth.com/Mammo