Menorah Medical Center

Overview of Breast Imaging Devices

Regular breast screenings play an important part in detecting breast cancer in its early stages and receiving timely treatment.  Thanks to recent advances in imaging technology, breast care specialists are now able to detect the early stages of breast cancer much more efficiently through various devices.  Learn what to expect during a routine breast screening with this guide to some of the most common breast imaging procedures:

Mammogram

In combination with clinical breast exams, mammography remains one of the most common methods of breast cancer screening currently in use. Mammograms allow doctors to examine breast tissue for breast cancer and other abnormalities by slightly compressing the breasts in a specialized X-ray machine. Although it may pose slight breast discomfort—particularly preceding and during the menstrual cycle—our imaging specialists here at Menorah Medical Center specialize in softer mammogram techniques through the use of the Mammopad®.

MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, utilizes magnetic waves to produce a much more detailed picture of breast tissue. In combination with a mammography, it can be used to screen high-risk breast cancer individuals more closely, verify a diagnosis, or determine breast cancer stage. MRI tends to be more invasive, as it requires the injection of a contrast agent prior to screening. Additionally, it may not be covered by private insurance plans.

Ultrasound

Ultrasounds use high-powered sound waves to create a virtual image of the interior breast, known as a sonogram. It is not used as a breast cancer screening procedure by itself, but may provide additional information about the size and location of abnormal masses.

Breast cancer screening guidelines from the American Cancer Society recommend clinical breast exams for women in their 20s and 30s and annual mammograms for women 40 and over. Join the fight against breast cancer this October with our team of experienced imaging technicians and breast care specialists here at Menorah Medical Center, located in Kansas City. Schedule an exam today by calling our Consult-A-Nurse healthcare referral line at (913) 498-6000.

More Health-Related and Emergency Resources

If you would like more information about dealing with medical emergencies, preventing cancer, and breastfeeding your newborn, check out the following links or call Menorah Medical Center at (913) 498-6000. Our full-service hospital contains an emergency room, urgent care, women’s care center, and cancer center.

- For a list of signs that a person should be brought to the emergency room, visit this page from MedlinePlus.

- The National Association for Ambulatory Care explains the difference between conditions that warrant a visit to the ER and those that can be handled in urgent care.

- Read this page from the National Cancer Institute to learn about the various risk factors for breast cancer and how you can minimize your chances of developing the disease.

- Find nutritional tips for preventing cancer on this page from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

- The American Cancer Society provides cancer screening recommendations and describes general lifestyle changes that can reduce your risk of cancer.

Colonoscopy: What You Need to Know

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in both men and women, which is why the CDC and American Cancer Society recommend regular screening beginning at age 50.  A colonoscopy is one of the most common methods that doctors use to examine the large intestine for abnormalities, but it isn’t uncommon for patients to have several questions about their first screening.  This guide to colonoscopy may help with common questions about this routine procedure:

What Is Colonoscopy Used For?

Colonoscopy is used to diagnose the cause of intestinal bleeding, detect abnormal tissue, and treat colon polyps. Although most colon polyps are benign, untreated malignant tumors can spread to other parts of the body and prove potentially life-threatening. A doctor can remove polyps and treat light bleeding during a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is recommended every 10 years.

How Is It Performed?

Doctors use a device called a colonoscope—a flexible, tube-like camera with a lighted tip—to examine the large intestine through the anus. Patients are often given instructions regarding dietary restrictions, cleansing routines, and possibly the use of laxatives several days prior to the procedure in order to completely clean out the colon and provide the doctor with unobstructed vision. Air is injected through the colonoscope during the procedure, and it is then used to inspect the entire large intestine.

What Are The Risks?

Although there is rarely pain during the procedure, patients may feel pressure, bloating, or cramps. Pain medication or sedatives may be administered to assist in relaxation. Although there is a small risk of perforation or bleeding in the bowel, complications are very rare. It is important to inform your doctor about any medicines you are taking, including anti-inflammatory drugs, blood thinners, and vitamins.

Menorah Medical Center has been helping residents of Kansas City and the surrounding areas maintain their long-term health through preventative screening procedures, compassionate care, and advanced medical treatment. To schedule a screening, contact our Consult-A-Nurse healthcare referral line at (913) 498-6000 today.

Fighting Cancer Through Nutrition

Proper nutrition is an important part of a healthful lifestyle, as it allows the body to more efficiently repair cell damage and fight infection. Whether you are recovering from cancer or want to do all you can to prevent it, the following dietary tips can help you achieve better health:

Eat Fresh Produce

Consuming fiber-rich foods such as vegetables, fruit, and legumes on a daily basis may help prevent cancers of the digestive tract.  In addition, tomatoes, soybeans, peppers, spinach, and onions may lower the risk of prostate and other forms of cancer. Because researchers are not certain which nutrients are responsible for these protective effects, dietary supplements are not as effective in preventing cancer as fresh foods are.

Opt for Whole Grains

When possible, choose whole-grain carbohydrates, which are higher in fiber and other nutrients. Look for breads with “whole wheat flour” as the primary ingredient, order brown rice at restaurants, and switch to cooking with whole wheat pasta.

Avoid High-Fat Items

Red meat, full-fat dairy products, and processed foods may increase your risk of cancer, as these items are high in dangerous saturated and trans fats. Instead of regularly eating hamburgers and french fries, seek out meals full of healthful fats, such as unsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids. These are found in vegetable oils, nuts, avocados, and fish.

Menorah Medical Center is dedicated to helping our patients improve their health and wellbeing through preventative care and cutting-edge medical treatment. For this reason, we offer nutritional guidance courses for patients with cancer. Held the first and third Tuesdays of every month from 1-2 p.m., these classes help patients understand how to maintain a healthful diet while undergoing treatment as well as what they can do to remain at a beneficial weight. Call (913) 498-6000 to schedule a cancer screening or nutritional consultation at our Cancer Care center.

This Mother Has a Second Chance at Life after Beating Cancer at Menorah

October marks the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness month, bringing together hundreds of thousands of people in the fight against breast cancer.  This Leavenworth County mother was diagnosed with Breast Cancer, but with the help of the Breast Center at Menorah, has a second chance at life.  Check out her story in this great video.

One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetimes, and over 85 percent of diagnosed victims show no family history of the disease.  As one of the most common—and one of the most fatal—cancers affecting American women, taking steps to raise awareness about breast cancer begins with you.

Join us here at Menorah Medical Center in the fight against breast cancer. As part of the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, our team of healthcare professionals can provide residents of Kansas City and the surrounding areas with comprehensive breast care services. Schedule your screening today by calling our Consult-A-Nurse healthcare referral line at (913) 498-6000.