Mammograms at Winona Health: Advanced technology meets personalized care

Kara Nelsestuen, Lead Mammography Technologist, and Kimberly Cramblit, Director of Imaging Services, Winona Health

We all get busy taking care of others, so when was the last time you had a mammogram? It only takes a few minutes, and it could be the most important appointment you keep this year.

Early detection matters Finding breast cancer early makes treatment easier, increases positive outcomes, and often brings peace of mind. At Winona Health, we typically recommend annual screening mammograms starting at age 40. If you have a personal or family history of breast cancer, talk with your primary care provider about whether you should start sooner.

Know your breast cancer risk Every woman is different, and your risk for developing breast cancer can vary. At Winona Health, we provide you and your provider with a personalized Breast Care Plan. With just a few questions, we can check if you are at higher-than-average risk. For most women at higher risk, the plan may be as simple as an annual mammogram. For others, it might mean extra imaging tests or steps to help lower their risk.

Risk factors for breast cancer include:

• Age
• Family history of breast cancer
• High breast density (determined from your mammogram)
• Genetics (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations)
• Personal history of breast cancer
• Race and ethnicity
• Radiation to the chest or face before age 30
• Gynecological history
• Hormone use

Having risk factors doesn’t mean you will develop breast cancer, and some women with few risk factors may still be diagnosed. By combining your health history with breast density information from your mammogram, we can personalize your Breast Care Plan. In the United States, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, but thanks to early detection and improved treatment, five-year survival rates have improved from 76% to 91%.

Understanding breast density and new technology About half of women who get mammograms have dense breasts. Dense tissue can make it harder to see cancer on a standard mammogram and is also linked to a higher risk of developing breast cancer. That’s why knowing your breast density is an important part of your care.

To make your mammogram as accurate as possible, we use Volpara Scorecard™, a tool that measures breast density and helps your care team determine if you might benefit from extra screening. This gives your radiologist a clearer picture of your breast tissue and ensures your screening is personalized for your risk.

We also provide enhanced mammogram reports that include your breast density percentage and a QR code linking to easy-to-understand resources about breast health. Learning about your tissue density helps you take an active role in your care and make informed decisions.

Advanced AI review for even greater accuracy Where you choose to have your mammogram matters. We are committed to giving you the best chance for early detection by using leading-edge technology and making your visit quick, comfortable, and reassuring.

That’s why we now use Lunit, an advanced AI analysis tool for both 2D and 3D mammograms. This extra layer acts like a second set of highly trained eyes, helping our radiologists spot even the smallest areas of concern, especially in dense breast tissue.

What this means for you:

• Greater accuracy: Helps detect up to 15% more breast cancers
• Earlier detection: More treatment options and more peace of mind

Depending on your risk, your Breast Care Plan may include additional tests such as:

• Breast ultrasound
• Breast MRI
• More frequent mammograms

Lifestyle and risk reduction Some factors cannot be changed, but you can reduce risk by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active and limiting alcohol. Your Breast Care Plan helps guide the best steps for your individual risk profile.

Taking care of you We offer 3D mammography (breast tomosynthesis), and if recommended, additional imaging such as ultrasound or MRI. Monthly self-exams are encouraged—checking for lumps, skin changes, or nipple discharge—to help you stay in tune with your body between screenings.

Whether it’s your first mammogram or one of many, we make the experience easy, supportive and reassuring. With advanced technology, careful breast density assessment, and a personalized Breast Care Plan, we’re here to help you detect cancer early, understand your risk, and take charge of your breast health.

Screening mammograms are preventive care and are typically covered by insurance. If cost is a concern, ask us about the SAGE Program. To schedule a screening mammogram, use your My Winona Health patient portal or call 507.457.4320 (select option 1).

Kara Nelsestuen, RT (R)(M)(MR)(BD), Lead Mammography Technologist.

Kimberly Cramblit, Director of Imaging Services.