The Importance of Breast Health and What It Means For You
We understand that each person is different and may have unique breast health needs. At Bronson, you’ll find we treat a variety of breast conditions. Commonly treated conditions include:
Collaborative Approach to Treating Your Breast Conditions
At Bronson, we strive to provide you with high quality services and helpful resources. Our breast health team includes several different types of providers, including:
- Nurses
- Nurse navigators – A highly skilled nurse who coordinates your care and acts as a single point of contact to your medical team and community resources
- Mammography technologists
- Radiologists
- Medical, radiation and surgical oncologists - Doctors who will care for you if you're diagnosed with breast cancer
Services include routine breast exams/mammograms, breast surgery, counseling and education, and breast cancer detection and treatment.
Comprehensive Breast Health Care
As a patient, you’ll benefit from a variety of breast health services that work together to provide you with the best care possible. This includes some of the most advanced therapies and technologies like 3D mammography, breast MRI, stereotactic breast biopsy, breast surgery and cancer treatment. Our team is committed to developing the right treatment plan for you.
All this is what makes Bronson a leader in high-quality health care. And with mammography services offered at eight convenient locations throughout Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Paw Paw and South Haven, we’re always close by and here for you.
High Risk Breast Clinic
For Individuals at an Increased Risk for Breast Cancer
Did you know that 1 in 5 women diagnosed with breast cancer were considered high risk before their diagnosis? Early monitoring and intervention can make a life-saving difference.
Our High Risk Breast Clinic is for people who may be more likely to get breast cancer. We help you understand your risk and give you the tools to stay on top of your health.
Through the clinic, you’ll receive:
- A personalized risk assessment and education
- Access to genetic counseling and testing (if needed)
- Screening recommendations tailored to your risk level
- Guidance on risk-reducing strategies
- Annual breast health monitoring and coordinated care
If you think you may be at an increased risk, talk to your primary care provider or OB/GYN. They can discuss your concerns and refer you to the clinic if needed.
Learn More
Are you at an increased risk?
You may be at increased risk for breast cancer if:
- You have been diagnosed with certain breast conditions, including lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH) and/or atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH)
- You or close family member has the BRCA1/BRCA2 gene or another genetic mutation related to breast cancer
- A close family member has been diagnosed with male breast cancer
- Multiple close family members have been diagnosed with breast cancer
Multidisciplinary Breast Cancer Clinic
For Individuals Newly Diagnosed with Breast Cancer
A breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. At Bronson, we’re here to support you every step of the way—from diagnosis to treatment—with expert care that’s timely, coordinated and personalized.
Our Multidisciplinary Breast Cancer Clinic brings your entire care team together in one place. This makes it easier and faster to get the care you need. Everyone who is diagnosed with breast cancer at Bronson is referred to this clinic.
Here’s what to expect:
- Nurse navigator support: Once you’re referred to the clinic, a nurse navigator will help guide you through the next steps, starting with your multidisciplinary conference.
- Collaborative care planning: Before the appointment, your care team—including a breast surgeon, medical oncologist, radiologist and more—meets to review your case and develop a personalized treatment plan.
- Multidisciplinary conference: You, your loved ones and your full care team will meet to talk about your diagnosis and treatment options. When you leave, you’ll have a full care plan and know what happens next.
Learn More
Annual Screening Mammogram
Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women and is the second leading cause of cancer death. Early detection by having a mammogram is proven to save lives. We support the American Cancer Society recommendation for women starting in their 40s to get a screening mammogram every year.
Learn more about the benefits and how easy it is to schedule an appointment for a screening mammogram.
Breast Exam Recommendations
- Women age 20+ should perform a monthly breast self-exam.
- Women age 20-40 should get a clinical breast exam every three years.
- Women age 40+ should get a clinical breast exam and a mammogram every year.
Note: These recommendations are updated with a high-risk status, determined at the time of a health risk assessment or an individual's first screening mammogram.
Free Breast Cancer Health Risk Assessment
Free breast health risk assessments are available to people who may be at an increased risk for breast cancer. This assessment allows the breast health team to evaluate your risk and provide screening recommendations, as well as ways for you to reduce your risk status. It is recommended that all women complete a breast health risk assessment before the age of 30 to obtain appropriate recommendations for their situation. Make your appointment by calling (269) 341-6781 or emailing breasthealth@bronsonhg.org.
Nationally Recognized Breast Care
Did you know our breast health programs in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo are recognized by the American College of Surgeons?
Read the Article
