The Women's Imaging Center at Northwest Texas Healthcare System provides a comprehensive scope of services for women – from breast screenings and bone density screenings to educational and support resources – all in one convenient location, close to home.

The goal is early detection.

Our mission is to deliver the highest-quality care to the community we serve. That's why we provide screening services that make possible early detection and diagnosis of health problems. The earlier breast disease or other problems are detected, the better the chances of a successful treatment outcome. The Center also provides more extensive care, if needed.

Services provided:

• Digital mammography with the largest FDA-approved detector on the market
• Bone-density screening system
• Breast ultrasound
• Faxatron imaging
• Physician consultation
• Educational tools, including breast self-exam instruction
• On-site scheduling, registration
• Reserved parking

Mammograms are safe.

A mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breasts, used to detect and diagnose breast diseases in women who have yet to show any symptoms. A screening mammogram usually involves two views of each breast. It's a very safe procedure that uses low doses of radiation to produce high-quality x-rays.

Mammograms are a must.

Nearly 40,000 women die from breast cancer each year. Only lung cancer causes more cancer deaths in women. In the hope of lowering that figure, the American Cancer Society recommends that all women have a baseline screening mammogram between the age of 35 and 40, and that, beginning at age 40, women have an annual screening mammogram. Women with additional risk factors should discuss an appropriate screening process with their physicians.

Risk factors for breast cancer:

• Family or personal history of breast cancer
• Early menstrual onset
• Late-onset menopause
• Use of oral contraceptives
• Use of hormone replacement therapy
• Alcohol use (two or more drinks a day)