Breast cancer affects nearly 1 in 8 women in the U.S. A mammogram from Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) can save your life. This low-dose X-ray screening helps us detect early signs of breast cancer.
At LVHN, you benefit from the experience of our dedicated Breast Health Services team. We perform roughly 50,000 mammograms each year. This level of care leads to accurate testing and recommendations you can trust.
Mammograms at LVHN
Expertise: Certified mammography technicians perform your test, and a radiologist specializing in breast imaging provides the results.
Quality: The American College of Radiology® has recognized LVHN as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence. This designation means we deliver safe, accurate breast cancer screening.
Technology: Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute was the first cancer center in the region offering 3D mammograms (tomosynthesis). This technology allows us to examine breast tissue layer by layer, helping us pinpoint abnormalities with a high degree of accuracy. 3D mammograms are available in select Lehigh Valley Cancer Institute locations.
Easy access: Our mobile mammography coach is a private mammogram center on wheels – with a team of breast imaging specialists on board. The coach makes it possible to receive a 3D mammogram at locations throughout the region.
Convenience: You do not need a prescription or provider referral if you are at least 40 years old and have not had a mammogram in the past year.
Free screening mammograms: Uninsured and underinsured women, may qualify for a free screening mammogram at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) Breast Health Services locations. This program is offered as part of the Pennsylvania Department of Health HealthyWoman Program, and is available to eligible residents who live in counties served by LVHN, as well as by the Allentown Health Bureau for residents who live within the city of Allentown. Please call 888-402-LVHN (5846) to make an appointment. Appointments are required and limited.
Mammograms for women at high risk for breast cancer
We may recommend regular mammograms for some women before age 40 if there is a higher than normal risk of breast cancer.
Our high-risk breast cancer clinic cares for all women at high risk, including those who carry a known genetic mutation. You meet with a nurse whose expertise includes genetics and breast cancer. We develop a personalized plan with recommendations, which may include mammograms, so we can monitor your risk.
Learn more about our cancer risk and genetic assessment program.
What to expect during your mammogram
During a mammogram, we take X-ray images of your breasts from different angles.
- If you have no history of breast cancer: We share findings with your primary care provider within two business days.
- If we detect abnormalities: We recommend you come back for an additional mammogram. We share the results with you immediately.
- If there is a breast cancer diagnosis: You meet with one of our nurse navigators right away. These dedicated breast cancer specialists provide you with information and support. We also discuss the next steps in your care, which may include a visit to one of our multidisciplinary cancer clinics.