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Breast Cancer Screening

Dr. Nagi Khouri, director of Breast Imaging, reviews a
patient's digital mammography film.

Same Day Results

The Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center provides mammogram screening services for the early detection of breast cancer and other breast abnormalities. We use digital mammography, which provides a clearer and more accurate image of the breast and aids in the accurate diagnosis of early stage breast cancers.

After your screening, which will take place at the Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center, a radiologist will read your mammogram and discuss the results with you while you’re still in the imaging suite. If the results warrant additional assessment, treatment, or biopsy, you may be able to get it that same day or within a week. Our ability to provide quick diagnosis provides patients with much-needed peace of mind.

Screening Mammograms vs. Diagnostic Mammograms

It is important that women understand the difference between a screening mammogram and a diagnostic mammogram.

Screening mammograms – Annual screening mammograms are recommended for women who are 40 years or older, or for younger women with specific risk factors for breast cancer. You don’t have to have any signs or symptoms of a breast abnormality in order to receive a screening; they are used for the early detection of breast cancer and other breast health issues. Eighty percent of tumors found during a mammogram are benign. Screenings are also recommended for a period of time as follow-up care after breast cancer treatment.
Diagnostic mammograms – You will be referred for this type of mammogram if you have a breast mass or other breast abnormality (found during a breast self-exam or by your physician), or if you have other symptoms of changing breast tissue.

Additional Imaging after a Screening Mammogram

Nationally, approximately five to 15 percent of women having a screening mammogram will be called back for additional imaging. For some institutions, the rate is higher. Women should not panic when this happens; the findings of additional imaging are usually benign. Fortunately, we read screening mammograms immediately so you won’t have to wait for results. If abnormalities are detected, we can take immediate action and proceed with diagnostic evaluation.