Preventive screenings are essential tools for safeguarding your health. These tests identify potential health issues before symptoms arise, allowing for early detection and treatment. By catching problems early, you can significantly improve your chances of a full recovery, prevent complications, and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Call 717-544-5941 to schedule a screening Mammogram and a DEXA scan at any of Lancaster General Health’s convenient locations.
What is a DEXA scan?
A DEXA scan is an imaging test that measures the strength and structure of your bones and is used to diagnose Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone density decreases, or when the structure and strength of your bone changes.
Why is it important?
Osteoporosis increases the risk for broken bones and can have serious effects in older adults. The DEXA scan detects weak or brittle bones to help predict the odds of a future fracture. It can help you and your healthcare provider produce plans to improve your bone strength and prevent worsening conditions.
Who is eligible?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends a DEXA scan for women 65 years and older, and women who are at increased risk of osteoporosis for reasons including a family history of osteoporosis, smoking, history of certain medications such as prednisone, and previous fractures after the age of 50.
What's the procedure?
A DEXA scan is a quick and painless low-radiation screening test. Usually, your hip and spine are scanned. Readings from these areas give the clearest picture of bone mineral density (BMD). The exam takes approximately 10 minutes.
What is a Mammogram?
A screening mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to detect breast changes in women who have no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. The procedure allows detection of breast cancers, benign tumors, and cysts before they can be detected by palpation (touch).
Why is it important?
Annual mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early, when treatment is most effective. The earlier we catch a cancer, the better the prognosis and survival rate for the patient.
Who is eligible?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all women of avarage risk get screened every other year starting age 40. Some women should be screened more frequently due to higher risk factors such as family history. Talk to your doctor about what frequency is right for you.
What's the procedure?
A screening mammogram usually involves two 3D X-rays of each breast. Mammography has been used for about 30 years, and in the past 15 years technical advancements have greatly improved both the technique, the radiation exposure and results. Radiation risks are negligible. The exam takes approximately 10 minutes.