In the fight against breast cancer, technology is a beautiful thing.

Since 1990, breast cancer deaths in the U.S. have dropped by 40%, thanks to routine mammography. Early detection is one of the most powerful tools in the fight against breast cancer — but only if you use it.

Tahoe Forest Hospital’s Briner Imaging Center and Incline Village Community Hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging offers Genius AI™ 3D Mammography™, now with enhanced detection technology, the latest breakthrough in breast cancer detection. It is the only exam rated by the FDA as superior for women with dense breast tissue.

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Tahoe Forest Hospital’s Briner Imaging Center and Incline Village Community Hospital offers Genius AI™ 3D Mammography™, now with enhanced detection technology, the latest breakthrough in breast cancer detection. Using advanced breast tomosynthesis technology, Genius exams significantly increase the detection of breast cancers, while simultaneously decreasing the number of women asked to return for additional testing.

The Genius AI™ Detection technology is the latest breakthrough in breast cancer detection, improving accuracy as it works to identify lesions that indicate potential cancer more thoroughly and quicker. 3D Mammography™ exams with this enhanced detection technology offer superior performance in locating suspicious areas in complex conditions, such as dense breast tissue, in breast images. Key clinical insights like this helps catch breast cancer early.

With the aid of the Genius AI™ Detection technology, doctors can accurately detect irregularities and quickly determine the best course of action for the patient.

  • The Genius AI™ 3D Mammography™ exam is the only mammogram FDA approved as superior for women with dense breasts compared to 2D mammography alone.
  • The Genius AI™ 3D Mammography™ exam finds 20-65% more invasive breast cancers than 2D alone.
  • Studies show that Genius AI™3D Mammography™ exams reduce callbacks by up to 40%.

Screening exams are quick, easy, and read by our board-certified radiologists. A physician’s order is not required, and follow-up care is available.

Free or reduced cost screenings may be available to those who qualify. For eligibility details, please call (530) 582-6458.

Mammograms Save Lives

About 1 in 8 U.S. women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, and most of those have no family history. Breast cancer is most treatable when found early, and mammograms can detect cancer before symptoms appear.

The American College of Radiology and Society of Breast Imaging recommend a screening mammogram every year beginning at age 40 for the average-risk women. Annual mammograms starting at age 40 can reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer by up to 40%.

Understanding Your Breast Cancer Risk

Every woman has a unique risk for developing breast cancer. Factors like age, family history, breast density, and certain genetic mutations can all increase risk. It is recommended that all women talk to their doctor about breast cancer risk by age 25.

High-risk women may need to begin screening as early as age 25 or 30. You may be at increased risk if you:

  • Have a personal or family history of breast cancer
  • Carry BRCA1/BRCA2 or other gene mutations
  • Have dense breasts or high-risk biopsy results
  • Had chest radiation therapy

Talk with your healthcare provider to understand your risk and screening options.

Appointments

To schedule an appointment at Tahoe Forest Hospital or Incline Village Community Hospital, call (530) 582-6510.

Media

October is Breast Health Awareness Month: The Sierra Sun talks with Tahoe Forest Health System on Breast Cancer awareness, and resources for prevention and treatment.

My name is Dr. Ahrin Koppel. I’m a Hematologist and Medical Oncologist here at the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center. I’m also the Medical Director, and I wanted to speak today on mammography and the importance of early detection in breast cancer.

Breast cancer is one of the most common conditions we see here. It is very important and very common for women, and also for men. But in terms of female screening, I think it’s very important to have screening mammography to catch cancers early. There are only a handful of cancers we can actually catch early, breast cancer being one of them, skin cancer being another. So getting routine dermatologic evaluations is extremely important.

Cervical cancer screening with Pap smears is also something we can catch early. And of course prostate cancer and the ability to check a PSA. Of course, that’s a discussion to have with a primary care doctor to make sure that’s appropriate. But screening and catching cancers early definitely saves lives.

I also want to mention the benefit of doing colonoscopy. Colonoscopy to catch colon cancer is extremely important and absolutely saves lives by detecting cancers earlier and making treatments so much more tolerable and effective.

If a time comes that you or a loved one are diagnosed with a cancer, the center here is here for you. Not only do we have three medical oncologists/hematologists, we have a radiation oncologist, we have nurse navigators, we have a nurse practitioner, we have mental health providers, and other social support service providers.

Our services here include medical oncology, evaluating for benign blood conditions, and also radiation oncology. We are able to provide infusion services, blood transfusions, hydration, and we also have a surplus of oncology support services free to anyone that has a serious diagnosis. These services include psychology, acupuncture, massage, and these services are free because of support of our community, because of philanthropy.

We don’t just see patients as a number here. We see the whole patient, and that is a truly unique way that we have managed to care for our community, to care for our neighbors, our friends, and our family.

I’m Dr. Ahrin Koppel. Thanks so much for listening.