CLEARLAKE, Calif. – St. Helena Hospital Clear Lake has brought the latest breast cancer screening technology to Clearlake.

With the hospital’s new cutting-edge 3D mammography service, Lake County women now have access to clearer images and pinpoint accuracy proven to increase cancer detection rates.

The medical imaging team provided a 3D mammography screening to their first patient on June 1.

Studies have shown that 3D mammography, otherwise known as digital breast tomosynthesis, provides greater accuracy in pinpointing the size, shape and location of tumors, especially for women with dense breast tissue.

By taking multiple pictures of each breast in just four seconds, a 3D mammogram gives radiologists clear, highly focused images of breast tissue, layer by layer.

St. Helena Hospital Clear Lake is one of few locations in the region to offer this advanced medicine technology.

Previously, women would have to drive 50 miles from Clearlake to access this state-of-the-art imaging service.

“This cutting edge technology is just one more way we’re helping to keep the women of Lake County healthy and breast cancer free,” said David Santos, St. Helena Hospital Clear Lake’s president and chief executive officer. “We’re investing in this technology because women and families in our community deserve access to advanced medicine close to home.”

Research shows that 3D mammography results in a 29-percent increase in detection of all breast cancers and a 41-percent increase in detection of invasive breast cancers.

When it is detected and treated early, women have the best chance of beating breast cancer.

The 3D mammography technology benefits all women, not just those with a family history of breast cancer or dense breast tissue.

“Increased detection means fewer unnecessary biopsies and diagnostic evaluations,” said Amber Thompson, director of medical imaging. “We hope this helps Lake County women return to their lives with peace of mind.”

3D mammography has revolutionized detection by taking multiple pictures of each breast from many angles.

During the imaging session, an X-ray tube moves in an arc around the breast, taking 11 images in a matter of seconds. This is done with the same two compressions as a 2D mammogram and with no increased radiation exposure.

The 3D mammography and bone density (DXA) scanning services available in the new Medical Imaging Suite in the Hilltop Professional Building at 15322 Lakeshore Drive in Clearlake.

These services are covered by Medicare and most major insurance plans.

Schedule a screening by calling 707-995-5638.