Every October, communities across the country come together to raise awareness, offer support, and remind one another of the importance of early detection when it comes to breast cancer. At South Arkansas Regional Hospital (SARH), we want to shine a spotlight on one of the most promising advances in breast screening: 3D mammography (a.k.a. digital breast tomosynthesis).
If you or someone you love is due for a screening, here’s what you should know, especially now, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Why Breast Cancer Awareness Still Matters
- Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women (and, more rarely, men).
- Early detection is a key factor in improving treatment outcomes, reducing the need for aggressive therapies, and increasing survival rates.
- Even in communities with limited access to advanced imaging, improving awareness of when and how to screen can make a real difference.
SARH is proud to bring more advanced imaging options closer to home, reducing travel and stress for our patients.
What Is 3D Mammography?
Traditional mammography captures a two-dimensional X-ray image of the breast, usually in two views (from the top and the side). In contrast, 3D mammography, also called digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), takes multiple images from different angles and reconstructs them into thin “slices” or layers of the breast tissue. Radiologists can scroll through these slices, rather than seeing just a flat, overlapping view.
Because of the layered approach, 3D imaging helps reduce the issue of overlapping tissue that can mask lesions or lead to uncertain findings on a 2D scan.
In practice, many facilities (including ours) use a combined approach: generating both the standard 2D and the 3D images during the same exam so the radiologist can compare and cross-reference.
Advantages and Considerations of 3D Mammography
Here are key benefits and caveats to keep in mind:
Advantages
- Better cancer detection, especially in dense breasts
Dense breast tissue is harder for standard mammograms to penetrate, because dense tissue and tumors can both appear white on an X-ray. By viewing tissue slice by slice, 3D mammography helps radiologists distinguish between overlapping normal tissue and suspicious lesions. - Fewer false positives and unnecessary callbacks
One worry many women have is being “called back” for additional imaging after a mammogram, often just to be reassured that everything is fine. Studies show that 3D mammograms reduce the rate of these callbacks, which can lower anxiety, delay, and extra cost. - Earlier detection of small lesions
Because of the improved clarity and resolution across layers, 3D mammography can reveal small tumors that might be hidden in overlapping tissue on 2D images. - Comparable time and safety
The procedure typically takes about the same time as a traditional mammogram (often around 15–30 minutes including setup). The radiation dose is low and considered safe; modern devices strive to keep the dose close to that of traditional mammograms.
Considerations and Limitations
- Still possible to miss cancers
No screening method is perfect. Very small tumors or cancer in certain locations can evade detection even with 3D imaging. - False positives are not eliminated
While reduced, false positives (areas flagged as suspicious but turning out benign) can still occur. Some research even suggests that over a decade of annual 3D mammograms, a significant fraction of women may experience at least one false positive. - Cost and insurance coverage
Because 3D equipment is more advanced, not all insurers may fully cover the cost. It’s wise to check with your insurance provider before the procedure. - Guidelines haven’t radically changed
National screening guidelines (for example, starting at age 40 or 45, depending on the organization) still apply. 3D mammography is seen more as an enhancement rather than a replacement for standard screening protocols.
Ongoing large trials — like the TMIST trial — are actively comparing long-term outcomes of 2D vs. 3D screening to understand how much difference it may make in mortality and advanced cancer detection.
SARH’s Commitment: Bringing 3D Mammography to Our Community
One of the most significant barriers to advanced screening in rural or underserved communities is access. Until recently, many women in southern Arkansas had to travel long distances to get high-quality imaging. SHARE Foundation launched a campaign to raise funds for a local 3D mammography machine to reduce that burden.
Now, SARH’s Women’s Health services include “leading-edge 3D mammography for more accurate breast cancer screening and earlier detection.”
In fact, the arrival of the new 3D mammography unit at SARH was celebrated in local announcements and media, marking a milestone for breast health in our area.
By offering this cutting-edge technology closer to home, SARH aims to reduce travel, make screening more convenient, and help patients feel more confident about their breast health.
What You Can Do This Breast Cancer Awareness Month
- Schedule your screening
If you’re due for a mammogram (or approaching the recommended age), call SARH’s imaging center at (870) 863-2000. Ask your insurance company whether a 3D mammogram (or combination 2D + 3D) is covered. - Know your risk factors
Family history, dense breast tissue, personal history, lifestyle factors, and genetic predispositions can influence your screening schedule. Talk with your physician about a personalized plan. - Perform self-checks
Monthly self-breast exams and knowing how your breasts normally feel can help you notice changes (lumps, skin dimpling, nipple changes) early. - Spread awareness
Share facts about breast cancer and advanced screening options with your friends, family, and community. The more people know, the more lives may be saved. - Support local initiatives
Consider donating or volunteering to SARH or other local breast health campaigns or foundation efforts to further expand these services.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than a pink ribbon, it’s a reminder that knowledge, access, and early detection save lives. At SARH, we are committed to bringing advanced, patient-centered screening to our community so you do not have to go far to receive top-tier care.
If you have questions about whether 3D mammography is right for you or how to schedule your screening, please contact SARH’s Women’s Health or Radiology Department. Together, we can move toward a future where breast cancer is detected early, treated effectively, and women in southern Arkansas don’t have to travel hundreds of miles for peace of mind.