Family Medicine Center Introduces Advanced Genius 3D Mammography in Rock Sound, Eleuthera

Health and Fitness

Family Medicine Center announces the availability of state-of-the-art Genius 3D Mammography in Rock Sound, Eleuthera. This innovative digital technology marks a significant advancement in breast cancer detection and prevention, offering women in Eleuthera easy access to superior breast imaging services.

Breast cancer is a pressing concern for women worldwide, and the Bahamas is no exception. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women in The Bahamas, with an estimated 300-500 new cases each year.

Additionally, it is being diagnosed at younger ages in The Bahamas as compared to other parts of the world. About 48% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in The Bahamas are under the age of 50. The average age of diagnosis in The Bahamas is 42, compared to 62 in the United States.

According to Dr. Zenna Friend, Family Physician at Family Medicine Center in Rock Sound, “Breast cancer continues to disproportionately affect Bahamian women, making early detection and timely screening critically important. With the introduction of the Genius 3D Mammogram, we are taking a significant step towards reducing breast cancer mortality rates in our community.”

The Genius 3D Mammography exam provides multiple highly detailed images of the breast tissue from a range of angles, creating an interactive 3D cross-section of the breast. This advanced technology allows radiologists to examine breast tissue layer by layer, making it possible to detect abnormalities, including small tumors that could be hidden in a 2D mammogram. This is especially beneficial for women with dense breast tissue. Increased accuracy means earlier detection, and a greater chance for treatment to be successful.

“Our goal is to provide the Bahamian community with the highest standards of healthcare. The Genius 3D Mammography exams are state of the art technology and are a useful tool for Bahamian women. We have been providing this service at our primary facility on Blake Road, Nassau for several years and are pleased to now introduce 3D mammography at our clinic in Rock Sound, Eleuthera,” said Dr. Graham Cates, Family Physician and Medical Director. 

Why is 3D mammography better?

Dr. Tonya Roker-Davis, Family Physician at Family Medicine Center explains with the simple analogy of a book. “If you look at a book from above, you are able to see the cover but not the actual pages. This describes standard mammography. However, if you were to open the book you can go through the entire book… page by page to see every layer between the covers. This is how 3D mammography works.” 

Benefits of the Genius 3D Mammography exam include:

1. Enhanced Early Detection: The 3D imaging technology offers improved visibility of breast tissue, making it easier to spot potential abnormalities at an earlier stage. The Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam finds 20-65% more invasive breast cancers compared to 2D alone, an average increase of 41%.

2. Reduced False Positives: 3D mammograms help reduce the chances of false-positive results, minimizing the anxiety and stress associated with unnecessary follow-up tests.

3. Only the Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam is FDA approved as superior for women with dense breasts compared to 2D alone.

4. Greater Comfort: 90% of patients surveyed have indicated that the Genius 3D Mammography exam is more comfortable. The new SmartCurve® system is designed to respond to the shape of a woman’s breasts adds a new level of comfort.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Family Medicine Center is encouraging women to get a mammogram through a social media campaign with the hashtag #checkyabubbies. 

“Throughout October we are offering a special rate of $100 (before VAT) at both our Family Medicine Center clinics  – in Nassau and Eleuthera. Plus those who come in for mammograms will receive a gift box filled with goodies (while supplies last) and additionally everyone is entered into a raffle to be drawn at the end of the month,” said Dr. Cates.

Dr. Friend emphasizes, “All women aged 40 and over are advised to take advantage of this potentially life-saving technology. Generally speaking, screening should begin at age 40, however, depending on your risk factors, your doctor may recommend starting at an earlier age  Routine breast cancer screening can make a profound difference. Our commitment to providing the best healthcare possible in The Bahamas is unwavering, and we are thrilled to bring this cutting-edge technology to Eleuthera.

To schedule a Genius 3D Mammography exam or learn more about breast cancer screening at Family Medicine Center in Rock Sound, Eleuthera, please call (242) 334-2500 or visit our website at www.familymedicinecenter.org.

About Family Medicine Center:

Family Medicine Center is a leading healthcare facility dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate, and patient-centered healthcare services to the Bahamian community. With a team of experienced healthcare professionals and state-of-the-art technology, we are committed to promoting health and well-being.