SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., – Regional West’s Breast Health Center is now offering a complementary breast cancer risk assessment with each mammogram.

“The outcome of these tests help arm women with the knowledge that increased surveillance options may be important and may change a patient’s breast health care plan. The goal is to find cancer earlier or even prevent cancer and not just react once it strikes. By offering this preliminary assessment of a woman’s breast cancer risk, we’re empowering women to take charge of their health,” explains Lanna Zulkoski, BS, RT, (R)(M)(BS), Breast Health Center supervisor.

Regional West Breast Health Center, in cooperation with Radiology Imaging Associates, P.C., Englewood, Colo., offers the risk assessments locally, along with all associated preventative measures. The preliminary risk assessment includes a series of questions about each patient’s and their family’s health history. The results are sent directly to the patient and their provider.

Depending on the results, cancer genetic counseling and/or a breast MRI screening exam may be suggested. The genetic counseling sessions are offered at the Breast Health Center via telemedicine with a genetic counselor in Colorado. A breast MRI may also be suggested. Regional West is the only area hospital with the technology to perform breast MRIs. A new large bore, state-of-the-art MRI scanner was installed in 2011. It can comfortably accommodate most patients.

“Although mammography is still our gold standard in breast health, a breast MRI is helpful at differentiating the soft tissues of the breast, especially for dense breasted women. They can also show areas of increased cell growth activity and help identify subtle changes and small cancers,” explains Zulkoski.

A preliminary breast cancer risk assessment is now offered with every mammogram. A woman may have multiple assessments over the years with each mammogram. “History changes as time passes, so risk assessments and recommendations could change each year,” said Zulkoski.

Cancer genetic counseling services are available to patients concerned about all types of cancers. For an appointment or more information on the RIA tele-health services, call 308-630-1740.

For more information contact the Breast Health Center at 308-630-2253. To schedule your mammogram with complementary cancer risk assessment, contact Regional West at 308-630-2700.

Regional West Health Services, Scottsbluff, Neb., is the parent company for Regional West Medical Center, Regional West Physicians Clinic and Regional West Garden County. These organizations, with over 1,900 employees, provide comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people and communities of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota and Wyoming. With over 110 active physicians, plus an additional 25 consulting specialists, the Regional West family of health care organizations offers care that spans more than 30 medical specialties.