The American Cancer Society estimates that 226,870 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected in our country this year. Women are not alone in this fight. Two thousand, one hundred and forty men had breast cancer in 2011. But the numbers are not all negative. Eighty nine percent of women survive five years after their breast cancer diagnosis. Eighty two percent survive 10 years after their breast cancer diagnosis.
Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center celebrated National Breast Health Month Saturday at the Sport and Health Club at Potomac Town Center in Woodbridge. The event featured free zumba and yoga/pilates fusion classes. Visitors and staff members toured the Sentara Mammography Van. Dr. David Weintritt, board-certified breast surgeon, and Dr. Melissa Yadao, board-certified orthopedic surgeon conducted health lectures.
The Sentara Mammography Van was funded by a $750,000 grant from the Potomac Health Foundation. Health care professionals working in the van provide screening mammography to the uninsured as required by the grant. "Now I really believe you can't always get what you want but you get what you need, " said Lori Richardson. The 52-year-old Woodbridge resident said, "this is a blessing to be able to get my screening in the van. Otherwise I'd have to do without it."
The van is also driven to local businesses to provide convenient, on-site care. You can schedule a visit to your business or organization by calling Marty Ward (703-523-1999), senior director of Sentara's Radiology Administration. According to Sentara President Megan Perry the program improves access to mammography screening services and links patients with necessary follow up diagnosis and treatment services.
In addition to the mammography van, Sentara offers a Breast Center in Woodbridge at 2300 Opitz Boulevard not far from Route 1; and an Advanced Imaging Center at 12825 Minnieville Road in Lake Ridge. Unlike some medical facilities, Sentara makes it simple and convenient to schedule annual mammogram screenings by not requiring a physician's referral. Patients may make appointments by calling (703) 523-1560 or online.
Sentara's Breast Center has been granted a three-year, full accreditation designation by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). The organization is administered by the American College of Surgeons. NAPBC accreditation means the facility has demonstrated a firm commitment to offer its patients every advantage in their battle against breast disease. Sentara's Breast Center has also been designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology (ACR).
The ACR recognizes breast imaging centers that have earned accreditation in mammography, stereotactic breast biopsy, and breast ultrasound, including ultrasound-guided breast biopsy. Imaging, including digital mammography, is a critical component of breast health care.
Mammography is one of the first lines of defense against breast cancer--allowing for early diagnosis and more effective and successful treatment. Digital mammograms, the latest in mammography technology, are available at all three (including the Mammography Van) Sentara locations.
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