Breast Cancer Screening

Staying on top of your breast health shouldn’t feel overwhelming. At Align Women’s Health in Jamaica, New York, Simone Lomax, DNP, WHNP, provides thorough breast cancer screening based on your age, family history, and personal health profile. Dr. Lomax understands that breast health concerns can be scary, so she takes time to explain each step of the screening process and address your questions with compassion and expertise. Schedule your breast cancer screening today by phone or online to stay proactive about your health.

What is breast cancer screening? 

A breast cancer screening uses tests to find cancer before you can feel any lumps or notice symptoms. 

Dr. Lomax combines different approaches to catch changes in your breast tissue early, when treatment works best. She performs hands-on clinical breast examinations during your regular visits and coordinates your mammography appointments.

When should I start breast cancer screening? 

The American Cancer Society provides guidelines based on your age and risk level. For women at average risk, Dr. Lomax follows these recommendations:

• Ages 40 to 44 may start annual mammograms
• Ages 45 to 54 should get annual mammograms
• Ages 55 and older can switch to every two years or continue yearly

Dr. Lomax personalizes these guidelines based on your individual situation, considering your family history, previous breast biopsies, genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, and dense breast tissue patterns.

What does high-risk breast cancer screening involve? 

If you’re at high risk due to genetic mutations or a strong family history, Dr. Lomax may recommend starting magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and mammogram screening at age 30. 

High-risk factors include:

Strong family history 

When several close relatives have breast or ovarian cancer, your genetic risk may be higher and require earlier screening.

Genetic mutations 

If you carry BRCA1, BRCA2, or other genetic changes, your breast cancer risk is much higher, and you’ll need more frequent screening starting earlier.

Previous chest radiation 

Radiation therapy to your chest before age 30 raises your lifetime risk, so you may need more intensive screening than other women.

What happens during breast cancer screening exams? 

Dr. Lomax examines your breasts and surrounding areas, checking lymph nodes under your arms and near your collarbone. She looks for skin changes, nipple discharge, or anything that feels different from your normal breast tissue.

While routine clinical breast exams aren’t part of standard screening guidelines for average-risk women, Dr. Lomax may still perform them based on your circumstances. She teaches you to be familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, encouraging you to report any changes right away.

Protect your breast health with evidence-based screening. Call Align Women’s Health to schedule with Dr. Lomax, or book online today.