Originally published in YOUR Williamson —

Williamson Health’s award-winning Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center is here to help women in Williamson County make the right decisions about breast health. Whether it’s educating about the importance of early detection or navigating a nerve-wracking diagnosis, Williamson Health’s team of experts specializes in providing personalized care.

Through its staff of highly trained breast health providers, The Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center offers high-quality breast healthcare and utilizes Williamson Health’s state-of-the-art technology for things like 2D/3D tomosynthesis, SmartCurve mammograms, MRIs and minimally invasive biopsies. Clinicians also specialize in genetic testing and counseling, in addition to surgical treatment of the disease.

Finding new and innovative ways to better serve its patients and the community is a driving desire for Williamson Health. In response to feedback, the Williamson Health Outpatient Imaging Center has extended its hours for mammograms to 6:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. Also, in 2022, in coordination with a local Williamson County Schools student and the Williamson Health Foundation, Operation Pink Chairs was launched. Through this program, Williamson Health provides complimentary pink recliners to patients for use for six weeks following breast cancer surgery.

The team at The Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center is a great resource for the women of Williamson County and provides these tips:

Early detection is key.

While breast cancer is common, early detection helps prevent severe cases and even death. When cancer is found early and before it has spread outside of the breast, the five-year survival rate is 99%, according to the American Cancer Society. All women should perform monthly breast exams at home and talk with their doctor about yearly screenings.

Mammograms are a vital tool in fighting breast cancer.

A mammogram is a diagnostic tool that helps you and your doctor detect breast cancer early—sometimes even before a lump can be felt—when the cancer is easiest to treat. Mammograms help identify abnormal areas in the breast tissue, giving you and your physician vital information to make decisions regarding further testing or treatment. For women over 40 at average risk for breast cancer, the American Society of Breast Surgeons recommends yearly mammograms.

Some women are at higher risk than others.
Having a risk factor doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to develop breast cancer; it means that you may have an increased chance of developing the disease. You are considered average risk for breast cancer if you don’t have a personal history of breast cancer, a strong family history of breast cancer or a genetic mutation known to increase your risk. If you do have these factors, you may be at higher risk of developing breast cancer—but it’s important to remember that risk also increases as you age.

You can lower your risk of developing breast cancer.

While some risks—like genetics or family history—can’t be changed, there are lifestyle changes that can lower your risk of developing breast cancer. Watching your weight and being physically active have both been shown to help. Alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer, so it may be best to limit or avoid alcohol. Breastfeeding your child for several months may also offer the added benefit of reducing your risk for the disease.

From state-of-the-art technology to personalized care, the Williamson Health team is committed to ensuring patients get convenient, accurate, rapid results and excellent care. Always seek the advice of your personal physician with specific questions about your health or medical status. For more information on The Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center, visit WilliamsonHealth.org or call (615) 595-4570.