Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, and recent trends show an alarming increase in diagnoses among women under 50. “Our screening rates have increased, so we’re picking up cancers at an earlier stage,” explains Dr. Lindsay Peterson, a medical oncologist at Siteman Cancer Center. “When we pick them up earlier, they’re much easier to treat; they’re much more curable.”
While October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s crucial to understand your personal risk factors and take proactive steps toward prevention year-round. Dr. Summer Chaudhry, medical director at Missouri Baptist Medical Center’s Breast HealthCare Center, emphasizes individualized risk assessment. “Cancer risk assessment models calculate a woman’s risk—for example, your 10-year or lifetime risk of developing cancer,” she explains. “We encourage women to have risk assessments done by their doctor… That will determine when to initiate screening mammography.”
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For high-risk women—those with a calculated risk of 20 percent or greater—Chaudhry recommends starting annual mammograms at age 30 instead of 40. “By far and large, your annual mammogram is the most important,” she says. High-risk women may also benefit from additional screenings, like breast MRI or ultrasound, alongside mammograms. “These are not to replace the mammogram; they can supplement,” she adds.
Getting a mammogram typically takes less than 30 minutes. Advanced imaging can detect breast tissue abnormalities that might indicate cancer. Although some discomfort is common, the benefits far outweigh it. “Early detection is key,” Peterson says. “We recommend patients do a self-exam once a month to know what their breasts feel like. Any changes—lumps, bumps, redness, rashes, swelling—should prompt a visit to your doctor.”
Taking the next step toward early detection is simpler than you might think. Here’s a list of facilities in the St. Louis area offering mammography services, many of which provide financial assistance or sliding scale fees, ensuring cost isn’t a barrier to this essential preventive care.
Siteman Cancer Center – Mammography Van
For accessibility and convenience, the Siteman Cancer Center offers mobile mammography services through its Mammography Van, which travels throughout the St. Louis area. By bringing high-quality screening directly to various communities, this service makes life-saving care accessible to more people, regardless of their location.
What they offer: 3-D mammography screenings
How to access: Check the van’s schedule online and make an appointment at a location near you.
CareSTL Health
CareSTL Health is a community-focused healthcare provider that offers mammograms as part of its women’s health services. It aims to serve underserved populations, ensuring that women from all walks of life can access breast cancer screenings.
What they offer: Screening mammograms, follow-up care, and breast health education
How to access: Walk-in appointments and scheduled screenings
St. Luke’s Hospital – Women’s Services
St. Luke’s Hospital offers a range of breast care services, including screening and diagnostic mammography. Its Women’s Services department is dedicated to preventive care, with advanced imaging technologies that can detect breast cancer in its earliest stages.
What they offer: 2-D and 3-D mammograms
How to access: Schedule a screening through their online portal or by calling their office.
St. Louis Breast Center
The St. Louis Breast Center specializes in breast imaging and diagnostics, with a team of experienced radiologists who are committed to providing individualized care. They offer state-of-the-art technology in a comfortable environment, focusing on early detection and preventative screenings.
What they offer: Screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasound, and biopsy services
How to access: Call to schedule an appointment or book online.
Missouri Baptist Medical Center – Breast HealthCare Center
The Breast HealthCare Center at Missouri Baptist Medical Center offers comprehensive breast health services with a multidisciplinary team, providing personalized care in a welcoming environment.
What they offer: 3-D screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast MRI, ultrasound, biopsies, bone density scans, genetic counseling
How to access: Schedule an appointment by calling or booking online; they also have a mobile mammography van for added convenience.
