Breast health has come a long way over the past few decades. And for good reason. If you haven't been touched by breast cancer, you probably know someone who has... a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend or neighbor. Not surprising, when you consider it's the most common cancer among women. But that's only part of the story. Thanks to a combination of better technology and increased awareness, more women than ever before are going for their mammograms, and beating the disease because of it.

Everything you need for your personal breast health - whether that includes screenings or more - is here at Chilton Memorial Hospital's Comprehensive Breast Center. Dedicated to serving the diverse needs of women in our community, our center blends a full continuum of preventive, diagnostic and support services with a uniquely personalized approach to care provided by board certified radiologists, interventional radiologists and licensed mammography technicians.

Recently, we've set the bar even higher with a major facility transformation to further enhance privacy, efficiency and comfort. The project will include renovations for the center's mammography and waiting areas - highlighting separate spaces for screening and diagnostic mammograms - as well as investments in additional equipment, such as a third digital mammography unit, two new ultrasound machines, and a state-of-the-art stereotactic breast biopsy table. These improvements will create a warmer, more welcoming setting while also speeding the delivery of care.

Read more about the renovations here.

Architect's rendering of the comfortable, new waiting area in
Chilton's Comprehensive Breast Center

Should you require additional testing or breast cancer treatment, you can rest assured that you have immediate access to the full resources of Chilton - along with a caring, compassionate staff that will guide you through every step of the process, from finding the right specialists to researching the latest therapies.

As one of the region's leading breast centers, more than 15,000 women choose Chilton's Comprehensive Breast Center each year. And they're not the only ones. According to Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., a health care research and information company, doctors also consider Chilton to be among the best places to go for breast care - ranking us No. 1 in the area of breast cancer treatment among New Jersey hospitals our size.

Complete Breast Care
Chilton's Comprehensive Breast Center offers a broad spectrum of services, including:

• Full field digital mammography for screening and diagnostic mammograms
• Ultrasound and ultrasound-guided biopsy
• Stereotactic core needle biopsy
• MRI and MRI-guided core biopsy
• Education and counseling, such as instruction in breast self-exams, emotional support and guidance
• Breast prostheses and bra fittings for mastectomy patients

The Digital Difference
Mammography remains the gold standard for breast cancer screening. Digital technology has made this test even more valuable by improving accuracy, safety and speed, which is why Chilton's Comprehensive Breast Center is armed with three full field digital mammography units. The technology produces crystal-clear images that can identify even the tiniest abnormalities while also reducing the patient's exposure to radiation and shortening exams. Also, similar to a digital camera, there is no waiting for results. All of the images are instantly displayed on a computer screen, where they are interpreted by a board certified radiologist.

Mammography Screening Guidelines
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends annual screening mammography for all women beginning at age 40, and earlier for those with genetic risk factors. As an added measure of protection, women may also get a baseline mammogram at age 35 and then receive one every two years until age 40.

For detailed guidelines and information regarding the early detection of breast cancer, visit the ACS Web site at www.cancer.org.

Until we find a cure, early detection is our best weapon in the fight against breast cancer. When found in its earliest stages, the chances of successful treatment are nearly 100 percent. So take charge of your breast health... and go for your mammograms. It could save your life!

For more information about Chilton's Comprehensive Breast Center, or to schedule an appointment, call us at (973) 831-5200.