Digital Mammography
Early Detection Saves Lives: Advanced 3D Mammography at Horn Memorial
Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women. About 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop breast cancer in her lifetime—that’s approximately one new diagnosis every two minutes. While breast cancer is far more common in women, men can also be affected, with an estimated 2,800 new cases of male breast cancer expected in the U.S. this year, according to the American Cancer Society.
In Iowa, breast cancer remains a significant health concern. In 2025, the state is projected to see over 3,000 new cases of female breast cancer. Horn Memorial Hospital is committed to supporting early detection efforts in our community with the latest in screening technology.
How 3D Mammography Works
A 3D mammogram feels similar to a traditional 2D mammogram—your breast is gently compressed under a paddle while images are taken. However, unlike 2D imaging, 3D Breast Tomosynthesis captures multiple X-ray images from different angles as the machine moves in a 50-degree arc around the breast.
These images are then combined by a computer to create a layered, 3D view of the breast, allowing radiologists to examine the tissue more clearly and thoroughly. This detailed imaging helps:
Detect tumors earlier and more accurately
Reduce the number of callbacks for additional imaging
Improve detection in patients with dense breast tissue
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
Several factors may increase a woman's risk of developing breast cancer, including:
Family history of breast cancer, particularly in a mother, sister, or daughter
Increasing age — the risk rises as you get older
Never having given birth
Having your first child after age 30
Early onset of menstruation (before age 12) and/or late menopause (after age 55)
Obesity, especially after menopause
While having one or more risk factors doesn’t mean you’ll develop breast cancer, understanding them can help you make informed decisions about screening and prevention.
Breast Cancer Facts
1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime.
Each year, more than 42,000 women die from breast cancer in the U.S.—that’s approximately one death every 12 minutes.
Early detection saves lives: When breast cancer is found and treated at an early stage, the 5-year survival rate is as high as 99%.
Advanced Imaging Close to Home
Patients in Ida Grove and surrounding communities can benefit from digital 3D Breast Tomosynthesis. With this technology available locally, there's no need to travel out of town for advanced breast imaging.
Results
Your report will be read by a Board Certified Radiologist and your results will be sent to your provider. Your provider will call you with the results or you can access your results in the portal.
A Message from the Radiology Director:
"We commit ourselves every day to matching our compassionate care for women with state-of-the-art mammogram technology. That is why we offer wide-angle 3D Breast Tomosynthesis. 3D Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) delivers sharper, layer-by-layer views of breast tissue, allowing earlier and more accurate detection. Studies show it can boost overall cancer detection by nearly 29%, and invasive cancer detection by up to 41%, compared to standard 2D mammography.”
If you'd like to schedule a mammogram or learn more about 3D Breast Tomosynthesis at Horn Memorial Hospital, call 712-364-7239.
