Lakeview Regional offering $150 3D mammograms

Lakeview Hospital , a campus of Tulane Medical Center, is offering state-of-the-art 3D digital screening mammograms for $150 and bone density Dexa scans for $50 throughout the entire month of October in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Both screenings include interpretation by a board-certified Lakeview Regional radiologist.

"The cash price is available for any patient with a physician referral," said Timothy Rogers, director of radiology services. "However, it is our intention to make these potentially life-saving tests more affordable for women in our community who may be uninsured or underinsured. Every women should have access to preventative medicine." According to Louisiana Cancer Prevention & Control Programs, Louisiana has the 28th-highest incidence and second-highest death rate of breast cancer in the Unites States. Mortality rates from breast cancer in Louisiana are statistically higher than the rest of the country.

"When it comes to breast cancer, screenings and early detection are the best form of prevention," Rogers said. "This October special for both breast cancer and bone density is an effort to increase awareness and encourage prevention methods." Lakeview Hospital Women's Center, the most technologically progressive hospital on the Northshore, is committed to the fight against breast cancer. Their 3D technology uses high-powered computing to convert digital breast images into a stack of very thin layers or "slices" - building what is essentially a three-dimensional mammogram. The radiologist can then see breast tissue detail in a way never before possible. Instead of viewing the complexities of the breast tissue in a one-dimensional image, the doctor can examine the tissue one millimeter at a time. Fine details are more clearly visible, no longer hidden by the tissue above and below. With 3D breast imaging, there are fewer false positives. Lakeview Regional Women's Center is the only facility in the area with the technology and staff to offer same-day results if a screening mammogram is abnormal, creating less stress and anxiety for the patient.

A bone density Dexa scan is the most accurate way to measure the thickness and density of bones. The quick and painless test is used to detect osteoporosis, a condition that often affects women after menopause. Bones naturally become less dense as the body ages, making them weaker and more prone to break. Bone density testing is recommended for post-menopausal women and those with personal or maternal history of hip fracture, as well as if medications known to cause boss loss (including corticosteroids and anti-seizure medications) have been used. Testing is also recommended for patients with type 1 diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, thyroid conditions or parathyroid conditions.

To schedule an appointment, call 985.867.4019. Physician referrals are required for a 3D mammogram and DEXA (bone density) scan. To learn more about women's imaging options, please visit our Mammogram & breast imaging page.