AI Is a Support Tool, Not a Replacement for the Radiologist

Artificial intelligence is increasingly used to support medical imaging, including mammography.

MammoScreen is an FDA-cleared technology designed to assist radiologists as they review mammogram images. It analyzes image patterns and highlights areas that may deserve closer attention.

The radiologist remains responsible for interpreting the exam and issuing the report. AI does not perform the mammogram, speak with the patient or make an independent diagnosis.

Its role is to provide an additional layer of information within the radiologist’s established workflow.

How MammoScreen Evaluates Images

MammoScreen uses a deep-learning model trained on a large collection of mammogram images.

When a new study is processed, the system assesses the images and provides information that can help the radiologist prioritize or re-examine areas of concern.

It can be used with both 2D and 3D mammography images, depending on the clinical setup.

This process happens behind the scenes. Patients do not need additional compression, extra images or a separate appointment simply because AI support is being used.

Your physical mammogram experience remains the same.

Why a Second Analytical Tool May Be Useful

Mammograms contain complex patterns of fatty, fibrous and glandular tissue. Dense tissue can be particularly challenging because it may overlap with or obscure an abnormality.

An AI tool can offer consistent image analysis and draw attention to features that the radiologist should consider alongside the full exam.

AI is not infallible. It can flag benign findings, and it may not highlight every cancer.

Radiologists also consider prior images, breast density, technical quality, symptoms, history and patterns that an algorithm may not fully capture. Human expertise and clinical context remain essential.

What Happens If an Area Needs More Evaluation?

If the radiologist sees an area that is unclear or potentially abnormal, the next step may include additional mammogram views, targeted ultrasound, short-term follow-up or biopsy.

That process is based on the radiologist’s final assessment, not solely on an AI score or marker.

A callback after screening is not a diagnosis of cancer. It means more information is needed to reach a confident conclusion.

Follow the instructions in your results letter and contact the ordering provider if you have questions about the recommended next step.

MammoScreen at Women’s Health and Menopause Center

WHMC includes MammoScreen with mammograms to support the breast-specialized radiologist reviewing each study.

The technology is intended to enhance review while preserving the role of trained clinical professionals.

Learn more on WHMC’s MammoScreen information page.

If you are due for screening, call (248) 932-9223 or request an appointment online.

You can also review WHMC’s 3D mammography services and ask whether additional screening should be considered based on your breast density and individual risk.

Questions Patients Often Ask About AI Mammography

Does AI see my entire medical record? The system is used to analyze mammogram images within a clinical workflow. The radiologist, not the algorithm, brings together the imaging with prior studies and relevant history.

Does an AI marker mean cancer is present? No. A highlighted area is a prompt for review, not a diagnosis.

Can AI replace additional imaging? No. If an area remains unclear, the radiologist may recommend diagnostic views, ultrasound, MRI or biopsy.

Does AI guarantee that a cancer will be found? No screening method or software can provide that guarantee. Patients should still report new breast changes even after a normal mammogram.

The most useful way to think about MammoScreen is as one more analytical input for the radiologist.

It can support consistency and attention, but it works within a broader system that includes high-quality imaging, trained technologists, specialist interpretation, comparison with prior exams and reliable follow-up.

Technology Works Best With Complete Information

Even when AI is part of the review, provide accurate history and make prior images available.

Tell the team about surgery, implants, previous biopsies, current symptoms and changes in family history. Those details give the radiologist context that image analysis alone cannot supply.

Advanced software may support interpretation, but high-quality care still depends on communication among the patient, technologist, radiologist and referring clinician.

The post MammoScreen AI: How Artificial Intelligence Supports Mammogram Review appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

A Missed Mammogram Can Become a Longer Gap

Busy schedules, caregiving, anxiety, discomfort and insurance questions can make it easy to postpone a mammogram.

One delayed appointment may not feel significant, but it can turn into a much longer break from screening. If you are due, scheduling now is a practical way to restore your routine.

Mammograms can identify breast changes before they can be felt. Regular screening also gives radiologists prior images for comparison.

A new area, subtle change or stable finding is often easier to understand when current and previous exams are available together.

Screening Is Intended to Find Changes Before Symptoms Appear

A screening mammogram is performed when there is no new breast symptom. It is not a guarantee that cancer is absent, but it remains the primary screening test for most women.

Finding certain cancers at an earlier stage may expand treatment options and improve outcomes.

Do not wait for a lump before discussing screening. At the same time, do not wait for a routine mammogram if you already have a concern.

A new lump, bloody or clear nipple discharge, nipple inversion, skin dimpling, redness, swelling or a noticeable change in breast shape should be evaluated promptly.

Know Whether You Are Due

For average-risk individuals, major guidelines support beginning mammography at age 40.

Recommendations differ on whether screening should occur every year or every two years, which is why your plan should be confirmed with your clinician. People with a higher-than-average risk may need earlier or more intensive screening.

Review the date of your last mammogram and any follow-up recommendation in the report.

If you were advised to return in six months, that is different from routine annual screening and should not be postponed without speaking with the ordering clinician.

Common Reasons Women Postpone Screening

Some women worry about pain or a callback. Compression is brief, and the technologist can work with you on positioning.

A callback means the radiologist needs more information. It does not automatically mean cancer.

Others are unsure about cost. Contact your insurer and the imaging office to confirm coverage and any expected patient responsibility.

If you are concerned because it has been several years, remember that returning now is more useful than feeling embarrassed about the gap.

Tell the office when and where your last exam was performed so previous images can be requested when available.

Make Your Mammogram Easier to Complete

Choose an appointment time you can realistically keep, add it to your calendar and gather prior imaging information in advance.

On the day of the exam, avoid deodorant, powder, lotion and perfume near the breasts and underarms. Wear a two-piece outfit and tell the technologist about implants, surgery, pregnancy, breastfeeding or breast symptoms.

Women’s Health and Menopause Center offers 3D mammography and MammoScreen AI support in West Bloomfield.

If you are overdue, call (248) 932-9223 or request an appointment online today.

How to Restart Screening After a Long Gap

If it has been several years since your last mammogram, begin by contacting your OB-GYN or the screening facility.

Be ready to share the approximate date and location of the previous exam, even if you no longer have the report. The facility may be able to request the earlier images.

If they are unavailable, the current study can still establish a new comparison point.

Do not wait until Breast Cancer Awareness Month if you are already due. Choose the earliest practical appointment, confirm whether an order is required and address insurance questions in advance.

If fear has been the main barrier, tell the team. They can explain the process, expected timing and how results are communicated.

The important decision is not whether you followed the past schedule perfectly. It is whether you take the next appropriate step now.

Use October as a Reminder, Not a Deadline

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a helpful prompt to check your screening status, but mammograms should be scheduled whenever they are due.

Appointment availability may tighten during October, so book early or choose another month that fits your recommended interval.

Consistency matters more than the season. Once the exam is scheduled, plan how you will receive the results and complete any requested follow-up.

The post Why You Should Not Delay Your Annual Mammogram appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

Breast Screening Is Not One Size Fits All

Many women know that mammograms are important but are less certain about when to begin, how often to return or whether family history changes the timeline. For people at average risk, current guidance from major medical organizations supports beginning screening mammography at age 40. The exact schedule after that may be annual or every two years depending on your health history, preferences and your clinician’s recommendation.

The most useful first step is not memorizing a single age. It is understanding whether you are at average risk or may need a more individualized plan. A conversation with your OB-GYN can help you review your history, clarify your risk and decide when screening should begin.

Mammogram Recommendations for Average-Risk Women

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that screening mammography begin at age 40 for individuals at average risk. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends mammography every two years from ages 40 through 74. Because professional recommendations differ on frequency, shared decision-making remains important.

A screening mammogram is intended for someone who does not have a new breast symptom. If you notice a lump, nipple discharge, skin dimpling, a change in breast shape or another concerning change, do not wait for your next routine screening date. Contact your healthcare provider for an evaluation. Diagnostic imaging may be more appropriate than a routine screening exam.

Who May Need Earlier or Additional Screening?

Certain risk factors change when screening begins or which tests you need. For example, doctors consider a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer, a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, a previous high-risk breast biopsy, chest radiation at a young age, or a personal history of breast cancer. Furthermore, dense breast tissue affects how clearly abnormalities appear on a mammogram.

Having one relative with breast cancer does not automatically change your screening plan. Your provider evaluates which relatives had cancer, their ages at diagnosis, and whether cancer occurred on one or both sides of the family. If patterns suggest an inherited risk, your provider may recommend genetic counseling or a formal risk assessment.

What Happens After Your First Mammogram?

Your first mammogram establishes an important reference point for future imaging. Radiologists compare current images with earlier exams to track changes over time. If you have previous mammograms from another facility, transfer those images before your appointment.

Your report will also describe your breast density. Dense tissue is common, but it makes mammograms harder to interpret and raises breast cancer risk. Additional imaging is not automatically necessary for every woman with dense breasts. Instead, your overall risk, mammogram findings, and personal preferences guide that decision.

Learn more about dense breasts and ABUS at WHMC.

Schedule Breast Screening in West Bloomfield

If you are 40 or older and have not scheduled a mammogram, or if you are unsure whether you are due, Women’s Health and Menopause Center can help you review the next step. WHMC offers convenient breast-screening services in West Bloomfield, including 3D mammography and additional technology for eligible patients.

Call (248) 932-9223 or request an appointment online. Screening recommendations can vary, so speak with your provider about the timing and imaging approach that fit your individual health history.

Questions to Review With Your OB-GYN

Before your visit, write down the ages at which close relatives were diagnosed with breast, ovarian, pancreatic or prostate cancer. Include relatives on both sides of the family. Bring information about previous breast biopsies, abnormal imaging, chest radiation and any genetic testing. These details can help your provider determine whether a routine average-risk schedule is appropriate or whether a formal risk assessment is needed.

Also ask how often you should return, whether 3D mammography is available, how breast density may affect your plan and where results will be delivered. Screening guidance can change as you age or as your history changes. Revisit the conversation if a relative receives a new cancer diagnosis, you learn new genetic information or you develop a breast symptom.

A clear plan is easier to follow than a general reminder to schedule someday.

The post When Should You Start Getting Mammograms? A Guide by Age and Risk appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

If your mammogram report says that you have dense breast tissue, you may wonder what that means and whether you need additional testing. Dense breasts are common, but breast density can affect both your breast cancer risk and the way your mammogram images are interpreted.

Understanding your breast density can help you have a more informed conversation with your healthcare provider about your personal risk factors and screening plan.

What Is Dense Breast Tissue?

Breasts are made of fatty tissue, fibrous connective tissue and glandular tissue. Breast density describes the proportion of fibrous and glandular tissue compared with fatty tissue.

Breast density is not determined by the size, shape or firmness of your breasts. It can only be identified through breast imaging. A radiologist evaluates your mammogram and assigns your breast tissue to one of four density categories:

1. Almost entirely fatty
2. Scattered areas of fibroglandular density
3. Heterogeneously dense
4. Extremely dense

Patients in the third and fourth categories are generally considered to have dense breast tissue.

Why Does Breast Density Matter?

Dense breast tissue is important for two primary reasons.

First, dense tissue and certain breast abnormalities can both appear white on a mammogram. This can make it more difficult for a radiologist to identify small masses or other changes within the breast.

Second, women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than women with less-dense tissue. Breast density is only one risk factor, however. Your age, family history, previous breast biopsies, reproductive history and genetic factors may also affect your overall risk.

Having dense breasts does not mean that you have breast cancer. It also does not mean that a mammogram is unnecessary.

Do You Still Need Mammograms If You Have Dense Breasts?

Yes. Mammograms remain an important breast cancer screening tool for women with dense breast tissue. Mammography may detect breast changes before a lump or other symptom can be felt.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends mammography every two years for average-risk women from ages 40 through 74. Other medical organizations may recommend different schedules, and patients with increased risk may need a personalized screening plan.

Your provider can help you determine when to begin screening and how often you should receive a mammogram based on your personal health history.

Women’s Health and Menopause Center offers 3D mammography in West Bloomfield. Three-dimensional imaging captures multiple views of the breast, giving the radiologist more information to review than a traditional two-dimensional image alone.

Could Additional Imaging Be Helpful?

Some patients with dense breasts may be candidates for supplemental imaging, such as breast ultrasound. Whether additional testing is appropriate depends on more than breast density alone.

Women’s Health and Menopause Center offers Automated Breast Ultrasound, also known as ABUS, for appropriate patients with dense breast tissue. ABUS creates ultrasound images of the breast that may help a radiologist examine areas that can be more difficult to evaluate with mammography.

Additional imaging can also identify findings that require further evaluation, even when those findings are not cancer. That is why the decision should be based on a conversation with your healthcare provider about the potential benefits, limitations and costs.

Review Your Mammogram Report

Your mammogram report should tell you whether your breast tissue is considered dense. If you are unsure what the report means, ask your provider the following questions:

• What is my breast density category?
• Does my family or medical history increase my breast cancer risk?
• Is 3D mammography appropriate for me?
• Should I consider ABUS or another form of supplemental imaging?
• How often should I receive breast cancer screening?
• Will my insurance cover the recommended imaging?

Insurance coverage can vary by plan, service and medical necessity. Contact your insurance company and the WHMC office before scheduling if you have questions about coverage or expected costs.

Mammograms and Breast Awareness Work Together

Even if your most recent mammogram was normal, pay attention to how your breasts normally look and feel. Contact a healthcare provider if you discover a new lump, skin dimpling, nipple changes, unusual discharge, swelling or another persistent change.

Screening is intended for people without symptoms. A new breast concern may require diagnostic imaging or another type of evaluation instead of a routine screening mammogram.

Talk With WHMC About Your Breast Screening Plan

Breast density should not be a source of panic. It is useful information that can help you and your provider make informed decisions about your care.

Women’s Health and Menopause Center provides 3D mammography, breast health services and ABUS at our West Bloomfield office. If you are due for a mammogram or have questions about dense breast tissue, call (248) 932-9223 or request an appointment.

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Women’s Health and Menopause Center sends a special thank you! We are sharing our gratitude to everyone who attended our Mammograms and Mimosas event this past Saturday, 10/8/2022. We were able to bring awareness to breast cancer, share the importance of screening, and brighten people’s days with vendor’s services.

We hosted a “Guess How Many Kisses” game where participants guessed how many Hershey Kisses were in a glass jar. We started with 409 pieces of candy in the jar. Dr Marcotte joined us and ate 7 pieces thus leaving 402. We had four grand prize winners who won goodie bags put together by OMA Comp, Spa Mariana, Michigan Associates of Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine, Germack, and more sponsors.

In addition to hosting fun games, we were able to screen our participants for breast cancer through mammogram scans. Big shoutout to our mammogram team that did an amazing job performing the screenings and thanked them with flowers.

Guests also enjoyed a refreshing mimosa while having options to sample services from other event sponsors.

If you would like to be a sponsor for our future events submit a request through our contact page.

View event photo gallery

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Regular screenings are an essential part of protecting yourself from cancer. As we learn more about how this condition behaves, we can come up with better ways to increase the likeliness of early detection. The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force issued updated mammography guidelines that made some significant changes from those released back in 2002. What do you need to know about the new recommendations?

Women in Their 40s May or Not Need Screenings Yet

Women ages 40 to 49 used to be advised to get regular mammograms. New guidelines suggest that this may be optional for some healthy women in this age group. The Task Force found that there is limited benefit when doing screenings for women in their 40s because results are much harder to read in younger women. This can cause patients to have to return for a repeat visit or biopsy only to find out it was a false positive. Additional tests and procedures usually must be performed to verify the condition. These can come with additional risks to the patient. That’s why some medical professionals back the new guidelines that suggest women should wait until they are 50 to get regular exams. This is not always the case. Speak with your gynaecologist to see what is right for you.

If You Have a Family History of Breast Cancer, You Need Screenings

The guidelines mentioned above are based on a patient who is healthy with no family history. If you have a first or second-degree relative who was diagnosed with breast cancer, then the recommendations will differ for you.

A first-degree relative would be an immediate family member like a mother, sister, or daughter. A second-degree relative would include family members that are one step beyond that, like an aunt or grandmother.

Talk to Your Doctor About Your Breast Cancer Risk

Different factors will affect your breast cancer risk and help determine when you should begin regular screenings. Talk to your Women’s Health OB/GYN to discuss factors that apply to you. Contact our offices today to schedule your appointment.

Women’s Health offers state-of-the-art 3D Mammography screening right at our office for your convenience.

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Breast cancer is a concern that lingers on the minds of most women at some point in their lives. The good news is that many patients survive and go on to lead full, long lives. The key is catching cancer as early as possible to increase your chances of a positive outcome. Today, women have multiple options when it comes to breast cancer detection.

• Mammograms

Mammograms are the most well-known breast cancer detection method used today. This approach involves taking an X-ray of the breast to look for changes that are not visible on the outside. While mammograms can be very effective, they do not find approximately one in five breast cancers.

• 3-D Mammograms

3D mammograms deliver a three dimensional X-ray image of the breast, so doctors can view multiple angles and are more likely to notice changes sooner, increasing the potential of catching breast cancer earlier which improves the probability of a better outcome. 3D mammograms advanced technology is also better equipped to look into dense tissue with increased accuracy and better views.

• Ultrasound

A breast ultrasound may be used to identify changes that can be felt but are not visible using a mammogram. It may also be used to look closer at a change that was identified using mammography. This method utilizes sound waves to produce an image of the inside of each breast.

• MRI Scan

A breast MRI is generally used for women who have a breast cancer diagnosis. This type of imaging will measure the cancer and look for other tumors. Women who have a high risk of cancer may be advised to have an MRI scan done as an early detection measure.

• Experimental Imaging

Experimental imaging techniques are being studied to look for improved ways to detect breast cancer. This includes methods like molecular imaging, optical imaging, positron emission mammography (PEM), and electrical impedance imaging (EIT).

If you are due for a mammogram or want to learn more about other screening options, contact Women’s Health and Menopause Center today. Our experienced, board certified OB/GYN’s will help you find the best method for you to increase your chances of early detection.

The post Choices in Mammography: Detecting Breast Cancer as Early as Possible appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

Some causes of cancer are genetic, which means that they are inherited through genes. Breast cancer can be hereditary, however, most cases are NOT. There may be lifestyle changes that you can make right now that will reduce your risk of developing the disease later in life.

• Avoid Smoking

Smoking increases your risk of breast cancer. The effects are even stronger in premenopausal women. Your best bet is to not start smoking. If you already smoke, now is the time to quit.

• Enjoy Alcohol in Moderation

There is nothing wrong with drinking a glass of wine or beer every now and again. Excessive intake can increase your risk of health conditions like cancer. A good approach is to limit yourself to one drink or less per day.

• Maintain Healthy Weight

Healthy weight is a great way to avoid many medical conditions, including cancer. The heavier you are, the higher your chances of developing this and other diseases. This is even more important for older women, including those who are postmenopausal.

• Breastfeed Your Baby

According to Lyda Hill Cancer Prevention Center’s health education specialist Rachel King, “Research shows mothers who breastfeed lower their risk of pre- and post-menopausal breast cancer.” She recommends breastfeeding for longer than the suggested six months for maximum benefit.

• Limit Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy can be helpful for a number of conditions, but it can also raise your risk of cancer. Limit the duration and dose of this treatment option. Patients who underwent hormone therapy for over three to five years had an increased risk of breast cancer.

Schedule an appointment with your Women’s Health and Menopause Center OB/GYN who can provide more information and suggestions for preventing breast cancer.

#WomensHealthandMenopauseCenter #OBGYN #Obstetrician #Gynecologist #Mammography #3DMammography #Mammograms #BreastCancerScreening

The post How to Reduce Your Risk of Developing Breast Cancer appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.

3D mammography is an exciting new breakthrough in the world of breast cancer detection and prevention. This method produces a three dimensional X-ray image of the breast, allowing doctors to view the interior from multiple angles. What is it about 3D mammography that’s making such a big difference in the lives of women?

• Improved Accuracy

Tumors are easier to see when viewed with 3D mammography. That’s because this process minimizes the effects of overlapping tissue. Doctors are more likely to notice changes than they were using older methods.

• Detects Cancer Sooner

3D mammography can detect cancer sooner. Early detection is vital to a positive outcome. This method allows the doctor to find and view smaller cancers that used to be hidden by 2D scans. The earlier cancer is detected, the sooner treatment can begin.

• More Effective in Dense Tissue

Some women have denser breast tissue, which could hinder imaging. 3D mammography uses different angles, which allows it to get a better look into dense tissue.

• Fewer False Alarms

False alarms cause serious anxiety. 3D mammography reduces the number of false detection with increased accuracy and visibility. This also means fewer unnecessary callbacks for additional biopsies and scans.

• Safe Method That’s More Effective

3D mammography exposes the patient to minimal radiation. The dose is below the FDA’s limit for mammography. The organization also conducted a study that found the benefits far outweigh any risks.

Contact your Women’s Health and Menopause Center OB/GYN today for an appointment to learn more about 3D mammography and to find if this is the best screening option for you.

#WomensHealthandMenopauseCenter #OBGYN #Obstetrician #Gynecologist #Mammography #3DMammography #Mammograms #BreastCancerScreening

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About 12.4%, or one in eight, women in the U.S. will develop an invasive form of breast cancer. While the rates have decreased since 2000, there are still an estimated 266,120 new cases expected in 2018. Over 40,000 women are expected to lose their lives to breast cancer this year. You and your loved ones can protect yourselves with information and regular screenings.

Women Under 40

Healthy women under age 40 are not advised to undergo mammograms. This is because breast tissue tends to be denser, making the screening less effective. There is a lower risk of developing the condition at a younger age. Your doctor can review risk factors to decide whether or not you should wait.

Women Between 40 and 44

Women are advised to begin breast cancer screenings around age 40. The American College of Physicians recommended raising the starting age to 50 for healthy women. The previous guideline was once per year, but some medical professionals now suggest once per two years. Talk to your gynecologist about your risks to determine the best mammogram schedule for you.

Women Between 45 and 54

Women should continue regular screenings through age 54. If you didn’t start in your 40s, make sure you schedule your first mammogram by the time you are 50.

Women Over 55

Once women reach the age of 55, healthy women can usually stick to a two-year mammogram schedule. Make sure you go over health status and risk factors with your doctor before making this decision.

Women of All Ages

Women of all ages should learn about breast cancer, its causes, and symptoms. They should also understand what mammograms are and their limitations as well as any risks that are associated with having them. This is the best way to make informed decisions about your health. Contact Women’s Health and Menopause Center to schedule an appointment and learn more or to find out when you should begin breast cancer screenings.

#WomensHealthandMenopauseCenter #WHMC #BreastCancer #BreastCancerScreening #Mammograms #OBGYN

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