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The Role of Estrogen in the Body
Estrogen is the main female sex hormone. However, both male and female bodies produce estrogen as well as testosterone and progesterone, and everyone needs a healthy balance of these hormones to...
Gastrointestinal (GI) disease encompasses many different types of disorders and can affect any part of the digestive tract, which includes the entire system from the mouth to the anus. Some GI disorders are minor and transitory,...
Gastrointestinal (GI) disease includes several different disorders and can affect any part of the digestive tract. Some are minor and resolve quickly, while others can be serious or chronic. In this two-part series, we’re...
Lung cancer is the single deadliest form of cancer worldwide and accounts for approximately 20% of cancer deaths in the U.S. Lung cancer deaths climbed steadily from 1930 through 1990, when 91.1 out of every 100,000 men died of...
Brain MRI can be an invaluable tool for the diagnosis and monitoring of a variety of conditions. However, some patients find it extremely difficult to successfully complete the procedure. That’s because MRI can involve extended...
Osteoporosis affects an estimated 10.2 million people over the age of 50 in the US. The condition causes bone fragility due to deterioration and loss of density, resulting in fractures for approximately half of women and a third...
A chest X-ray can provide valuable information about the condition of your heart, lungs, and surrounding structures. Doctors often order them to investigate respiratory or cardiac symptoms or to check for damage after a chest...
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death and the second most common type of cancer in the U.S.[1] One of the reasons lung cancer is so deadly is that symptoms often don’t appear until the disease has reached an advanced...
Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are frequently used by medical professionals to visualize internal body structures. Both technologies are capable of producing detailed three-dimensional images, and...
Both men and women experience pelvic pain for a variety of reasons. In many cases, pelvic pain goes away on its own. Sometimes, however, it can be a sign of a serious or chronic condition that needs treatment. Below are some of...
When should mammography begin?
In recent years, differing guidelines for mammography screening offered by various groups of medical professionals have sparked confusion among patients. With a range of professional opinions, it...
Fertility Changes Over Time
If you’ve been trying to get pregnant, you may be surprised at how long it can take. While women tend to be most fertile in their 20s, many in the U.S. have been waiting longer to start their families....
Menopause and the years of shifting hormone levels that lead up to it (called perimenopause) cause changes in the body that affect both mental and physical health. Decreasing levels of estrogen and progesterone influence not just...
If you’ve had X-ray imaging done in the past, you may remember having a lead shield laid over part of your body to prevent radiation from reaching areas that are not being imaged. In the 1950s, radiologists began shielding...
If you’ve been suffering with painful periods, you might think your pain is a natural part of menstruation. While menstrual cramps are normal, excessive pain during menstruation can be a sign that something more is going on....
Who is at risk for prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is very common. It affects approximately 13% and causes early death in 2% to 3% of men in the U.S. The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age, with 60% of cases...
Physicians have long recognized the value of cold for reducing inflammation and relieving pain. Over time, they found that it is also an effective way to destroy specific tissues in a targeted way, a process called cryosurgery or...
Expanded Medicare Coverage
In February of this year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that it was expanding coverage for an early lung cancer detection procedure known as low-dose CT lung screening...
If you’re feeling anxious about an upcoming colonoscopy, you’re far from alone. Studies indicate that up to 1 in 5 people undergoing colonoscopy report severe anxiety, often because they anticipate pain and discomfort. Not only...
Many different types of illness and injury can cause joint pain. The underlying condition that causes it can be mild or severe, acute or chronic. If joint pain is mild, isn’t accompanied by other symptoms, and persists for less...
Doctors have several types of tests at their disposal to diagnose gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. These include lab tests, MRI, CT, ultrasound, X-ray, colonoscopy, and more. Often, doctors order a type of moving X-ray called...
Gastrointestinal problems are extremely common.
Gastrointestinal disorders affect millions of Americans each year. People can experience a wide range of digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel...
The staff at Blank Park Zoohave been treating "Chiquita," a two-year old female Magellanic penguin for a chronic limp. When examinations and treatments failed to resolve her limp they determined that more advanced imaging like...
Following a mastectomy to remove breast cancer, some women undergo reconstructive surgery, and some do not. The decision is very personal, and the right choice for each woman is the one that best supports her physical and mental...
If you have had or are planning to have a mastectomy following a breast cancer diagnosis, you may decide to have reconstructive surgery to restore the shape of your breasts. To make the best choices for your body, mind, and...
What is MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a technology that uses a powerful magnet to produce a strong magnetic field around the body. This magnetic field causes protons in the body to align with it. Then, radio waves are...
When you visit a new health care provider, your new patient paperwork often includes questions about not just your medical history but also that of your close family members. Maybe you have sped past this section, filling in...
Benefits of Physical Activity
Regular physical activity is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. Staying active can bring a host of physical and psychological benefits, including
- Stress reduction
- Improved energy,...
Navigating provider appointments with your family care physician and specialist can be challenging enough; then you receive an insurance explanation of benefits. After deciphering what you are responsible for, do you wonder,...
If you’re a long-term smoker, you probably don’t need to be reminded that it’s bad for your health. You understand that smoking makes it more likely that you’ll develop lung cancer. If it were easy to just quit, you would have...
In your 50s, your body changes in important ways. Staying healthy and strong takes more effort than it used to, but it’s well worth it! Follow these tips to feel your best and help your body carry you through this decade with...
If you have a uterus, there is a good chance that at some point in your life, you’ll have uterine fibroids. Also known as leiomyomas, fibroids are typically benign smooth muscle tumors that commonly grow in and around the uterus...
Continuing a Tradition of Exceptional Service
Iowa Radiology has always been committed to providing exceptional service to our patients and our community. In keeping with that commitment, we are proud to announce our voluntary...
It’s hard to find what you’re not looking for.
If you were asked to picture a cancer patient, a young adult is probably not the first person who comes to mind. That’s only natural, considering more than 90% of cancers are...
Standard lung screening guidelines have changed as of 4/1/2022. For more information visit "Lung Screening Guidelines Changes in 2022"
Quitting smoking is hard. Nicotine is highly addictive, so even occasional smokers can become...
Radiation comes in many forms, and we’re exposed to it every day. At low levels, radiation exposure is not a cause for concern; it’s simply a fact of life. Exposure to high levels of radiation, on the other hand, can cause severe...
Breast cancer screening is constantly evolving. Since mammography began to work its way into women’s health care in the 1950s, advances in technology have made it both safer and more effective. Today, women have more choices than...
Habits are hard to change. Actions we repeat over and over become second nature, and we often do them without even thinking. This is helpful when it comes to things like daily hygiene rituals or driving a stick shift, but the...
Are you struggling to lose those final few pounds? Losing weight certainly has its frustrating moments, and the last few pounds to reach your goal can be stubborn. But there is a lot that goes into losing weight and you're not...
Mammography is the most widely used and commonly recommended technology for breast imaging. The American College of Radiology and the Society for Breast Imaging recommend annual mammography screening for women at average risk of...
Why calculate BMI?
BMI is a widely used measure because it’s easy, convenient, and non-invasive. Anyone can quickly calculate their BMI at home with no information other than their current height and weight. You can calculate it...
Are you wondering if now is a good time to get tested for lung cancer, even if you’re not currently experiencing any symptoms? Getting a screening early is a good idea to make sure you’re healthy or identify potential cancer...
Standard lung screening guidelines have changed as of 4/1/2022. For more information visit "Lung Screening Guidelines Changes in 2022"
It’s been understood for decades that tobacco smoking is the single leading cause of lung...
The strategy of closing businesses and advising residents to stay at home is, by design, isolating. That’s good for limiting the damage that the coronavirus known as COVID-19 is able to inflict in our communities. Isolation,...
In a time when so much seems beyond our control, we want to control what we can. While it’s likely that many Americans will contract the coronavirus, the severity of any individual’s illness is difficult to predict. One thing we...
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both women and men in the U.S., accounting for approximately 25% of all deaths. Fortunately, many of the factors that contribute to heart disease are within your control. You can...
If you’re thinking about undergoing body composition analysis (BCA) to understand how to better manage your health, you may be tempted to shed pounds before getting on the scanning table. It can be most effective, however, to...
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., accounting for one in four deaths. Last year, the American Heart Association reported that a staggering 48% of Americans are living with some form of...
Since 2017, Iowa law has required mammography providers to include information about breast density in mammography reports. You may have questions about what this information means for you, your health, and the effectiveness of...
Approximately one in eight women (12.5%) develops breast cancer in her lifetime. Because of the prevalence of breast cancer in women, doctors and medical associations recommend screening—looking for signs of disease when no...
Receiving a call after a screening mammogram is a source of worry for many women. While it’s natural to be concerned, it’s helpful to keep in mind that the vast majority of women who are called back for follow up after a...
Body composition analysis is the process of assessing the content of fat, muscle, and bone in the body. Body fat can be measured in a variety of ways, including using calipers to measure subcutaneous fat (fat stored beneath the...
Pain and periods often go together. More than half of women regularly experience pain during their menstrual cycle, which can sometimes interfere with the ability to participate in and enjoy everyday activities.[1] While many...
Since 1997, November has been recognized in the U.S. as National Family Caregivers Month. At this time each year, we honor the everyday heroism of the more than 40 million Americans who serve this role. The AARP Public Policy...
Reasons to Celebrate
Each year during the week of November 8, we celebrate National Radiologic Technology week to highlight the vital role radiologic technologists (RTs) play in patient care and safety. The American Society of...
What is a spinal compression fracture?
Most often seen in patients with osteoporosis, spinal compression fractures occur when the vertebrae lack sufficient strength to support the spine. This can also happen as a result of trauma...
Breast Cancer Risk
Breast cancer affects hundreds of thousands of women in the U.S. each year. On average, a woman has approximately a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer during her lifetime and a 1 in 38 chance of dying...
Abbreviated breast MRI is a new enhanced breast cancer screening option for women with dense breast tissue and less than a 20% lifetime risk of breast cancer.
It is estimated that in the U.S., one in 285 children will be diagnosed with cancer before their twentieth birthday. While survival of childhood cancer has increased dramatically in recent decades, the incidence of cancer in...
The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that 1 in 22 men and 1 in 24 women in the U.S. develops colorectal cancer at some time during their lives.[1] The National Cancer Institute expects 140,600 patients to be diagnosed with...
MRI is an important imaging tool for diagnosing and assessing a wide range of medical conditions. If an MRI may be in your future, here are six basic facts you should know.
Dating back to the 1970s, the use of mammography in breast cancer screening has proven to save lives. Breast cancer screening has evolved dramatically, however, since those early days of direct-exposure film and the need for high...
If your doctor orders a pelvic ultrasound exam, images can be captured in two different ways: transabdominally (through the abdomen) and transvaginally (through the vaginal canal). Depending on the patient and the condition being...
Iowa Radiology is proud to announce the arrival of abbreviated breast MRI, the latest advance in breast cancer screening technology. Breast MRI allows radiologists to more accurately detect early-stage breast cancers, especially...
National Cancer Survivors Day
The first Sunday in June, we celebrate life with National Cancer Survivors Day. Each year, there is more reason to celebrate as people survive cancer at higher and higher rates. From 1991 to 2016,...
A cardiac calcium test uses CT scanning to determine the amount of calcified plaque buildup in the coronary arteries, which helps doctors assess the presence of coronary artery disease and the risk of associated events such as...
The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2019, more than 80,000 cases of bladder cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S., and more than 17,000 Americans will die of the illness. Approximately 1 in 27 men and 1 in 89 women...
Take Care of the Earth, and It Will Help Take Care of You
Recent research shows that spending time in nature not only feels good; it has measurable effects on our health. This Earth Day, take some time to enjoy the great outdoors...
Although it’s important to be aware of changes in your body—particularly if they may indicate cancer—it’s also important to realize that our bodies go through plenty of normal, healthy changes throughout our lives. For women,...
What is thermography?
Also known as digital infrared imaging, thermography is a procedure that uses an infrared camera to produce images that show patterns of heat, including blood flow, at or near the skin’s surface. These...
Each year since 1996, the Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives promotes Brain Awareness Week. The initiative brings together people from academia, government, and professional and advocacy groups to celebrate the brain and promote...
March Is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. and is expected to claim more than 50,000 lives this year. Enhanced screening and treatment have helped to lower...
In 2016, the United Nations General Assembly declared February 11 the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. In doing so, they promoted the understanding that the participation of women and girls is essential to meeting...
Because 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime, it’s important to understand the basics about breast health. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the U.S., claiming...
You followed your doctor’s advice and got your annual screening mammogram. You left the imaging clinic feeling good about keeping on top of your preventive health care. A couple of days later, however, you were surprised to get a...
January is National Radon Action Month. Learn what you should know about radon and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
What is radon?
Radon is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless gas that is released naturally...
Painful menstrual cramps, also called dysmenorrhea, are common among women of childbearing age. More than half of menstruating women report at least some period-related pain lasting 1–2 days each month. Many factors, including...
What are fibroadenomas?
Fibroadenomas are the most common type of breast mass. They are benign and typically affect women in their 20s and 30s but can be found at any age. Juvenile fibroadenomas are the most common type of breast...
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the natural pores in the bone become larger as a result of bone loss. When this happens, the bones become brittle and can break easily—even simply from coughing,...
It’s no secret these days that the holidays are rough for many of us. Even for those who are looking forward to time with family and friends, delicious feasts, and treasured traditions, the time and money spent on holiday...
When you’re pregnant, it’s wise to be cautious of exposing your unborn child to anything that might cause harm. At the same time, protecting your health is essential to protecting the health of your baby. If your doctor...
What is Paget’s disease of the breast?
Paget’s disease of the breast, also called Paget’s disease of the nipple or mammary Paget’s disease, is a rare type of breast cancer that causes changes to the skin of the nipple. It is...
What is invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC)?
Invasive lobular carcinoma is a type of breast cancer that begins in the lobules (milk-producing glands) of the breast and subsequently spreads to surrounding tissues. The second most...
What is lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)?
LCIS refers to abnormal cell growth in the lobules (milk-producing glands) of the breast. In contrast to invasive lobular carcinoma, LCIS remains contained within the lobules without...
What is invasive ductal carcinoma?
The most common form of breast cancer, invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) accounts for about 80% of all breast cancers.[1] Like ductal carcinoma in situ, IDC begins in the milk ducts. Rather than...
Getting called back after your mammogram for follow-up can be stressful and worrying—even more so if you’re not sure what the results of your follow-up tests may mean for your health. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is the most...
Gynecologic cancers cause more than 30,000 deaths in the U.S. and affect more than 95,000 women every year. These include ovarian, uterine, cervical, vaginal, an vulvar cancers. For Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month, we’re...
Gynecologic cancers affect more than 95,000 women and cause more than 30,000 deaths in the U.S. each year. Gynecologic cancers include cancers of the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, and vulva. While uterine cancer is the most...
mriWhile mammography is the only breast cancer screening tool proven to reduce deaths through early detection, other methods of imaging are useful when mammography alone doesn’t provide the information needed. MRI is a valuable...
Mammography is the only breast cancer screening tool that has been proven to reduce deaths through early detection. However, other imaging modalities can be valuable when a supplement or alternative to mammography is needed....
Although breast pain can be worrying as well as uncomfortable, it is not typically a sign of breast cancer. The most common cause of painful breasts is a fluctuation in hormones, but a number of other conditions can also be at...
Why does breast density matter?
Beginning this year, all mammography reports in Iowa must contain information about the patient’s breast density and, for patients with dense breasts, information about how density relates to...
When and how often should women get mammograms?
Iowa Radiology follows the guidelines set out by the American College of Radiology (ACR), which recommends beginning annual mammography screening at age 40. Research has shown that...
Most people are familiar with transdermal ultrasound exams, during which the ultrasound transducer is passed over the surface of the skin to produce images of internal structures. To assess issues related to the female...
If your doctor recommends an MRI, it’s important to understand both the value of the procedure to your health care plan and the risks it may pose. Below are the basics you should know about MRI before you come to your imaging...
Many women experience pelvic pain during their lives. Often, this is a predictable aspect of menstruation. However, persistent pelvic pain that’s not related to the menstrual cycle can have a wide range of causes, including...
When you look at mammography or ultrasound images, you might wonder how radiologists make any sense of them. How can they identify potential cancers in those Rorschach tests of gray and white? While even the most advanced imaging...
Since 1994, the U.S. has recognized National Men’s Health Week in order to raise awareness of preventable disease in men and boys as well as the benefits of early detection and treatment. The joint resolution that established...
National Cancer Survivors Day, recognized on the first Sunday in June, is an annual celebration of life for those who have been touched by cancer. It’s a time for cancer survivors to connect, celebrate victories, and raise...
No!
Worry is understandable. You were probably expecting the standard letter in the mail saying your mammogram was normal, but instead, you got a call from your doctor. Take a deep breath, and understand that the vast majority of...
Beginning on Mother’s Day each year, the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s health leads the recognition of National Women’s Health Week. This creates an opportunity to encourage women to prioritize their...
What is bone density testing?
Bone density testing, also known as DEXA (an acronym for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scanning, is a way of assessing bone mineral density using advanced, low-dose X-ray technology. It’s...
You’ve probably heard that one in eight women develops breast cancer during her lifetime. Steps such as staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, and limiting alcohol consumption can help reduce your...
The Testicular Cancer Society recognizes April as Testicular Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 9,310 new cases of testicular cancer will be diagnosed and approximately 400 men will...
Each April, the U.S. recognizes National Cancer Control Month. Cancer control includes each phase of the fight against cancer: prevention, detection, and treatment. More than 1.7 billion Americans will be diagnosed with cancer...
A woman who experiences symptoms like trouble getting pregnant, repeated miscarriages, or abnormal menstrual bleeding may be referred for a sonohysterogram to investigate possible causes. If a transabdominal or transvaginal...
This year, March 12–18 is Brain Awareness Week, a global celebration of the brain and the promise of brain research. To help expand your brain awareness, we’ll discuss how computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging...
March Is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare form of breast cancer in which cancerous cells block the lymph vessels in breast tissue, causing the breast to become swollen, red, sensitive, or otherwise inflamed. It is rare, accounting for...
Every February, we recognize American Heart Month, which was first designated by President Johnson in 1964. At that time, more than half of deaths in the U.S. were attributable to heart disease.[1] As of 2011, approximately one...
World Cancer Day & National Cancer Prevention Month
February is a month to raise awareness of cancers of all kinds. February 4 is World Cancer Day, a global event created to unite the world’s population in the fight against...
By now, you’ve probably heard of 3-D mammography, properly called breast tomosynthesis. Unlike traditional mammography, which uses two X-ray images of each breast (one vertical and one horizontal), tomosynthesis uses a series of...
What is a hysterosalpingogram?
A hysterosalpingogram is an X-ray exam of the uterus and fallopian tubes. It uses fluoroscopy, which creates a moving picture rather than a single still image, to track the flow of contrast material...
In April of last year, Iowa passed its breast density reporting law. As a result, beginning this year, all mammography reports in Iowa are required to include information about the patient’s breast density and, for patients with...
Breast masses can take many different forms, some cancerous and some benign. Phyllodes tumors are among the less common types of breast mass.
If you suffer from chronic pelvic pain, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that 10–15% of gynecological visits in the U.S. are scheduled to address this type of pain, and that it affects close to 40% of women.[1] Pelvic congestion...
According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease is the underlying cause of 1 in 3 deaths in the U.S, and about 92.1 million American adults suffer from cardiovascular disease or the after-effects of a stroke....
What is breast density?
Breast density refers the relative proportions of fat vs. fibrous and glandular tissue in the breast. Because fat is less dense than other breast tissues, breasts containing a relatively small proportion...
For many patients, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a safe way to discover important health information. Unlike X- rays or CT scans, MRI does not expose patients to ionizing radiation. However, it’s important to follow...
You may have heard the term “scanxiety” used to refer to the often intense feeling of anxiety and fear that can surround imaging exams, particularly for patients who have or have had cancer. While scan-related anxiety has not...
Each year, we recognize the contributions of radiologic technologists (RTs) to health care during National Radiologic Technology Week (NRTW). Although initially celebrated in July, it was later moved to coincide with Wilhelm...
In 1993, the third Friday of each October was designated National Mammography Day in an effort to encourage women to get screening mammograms. Today, we take this opportunity to celebrate the contribution mammography has made to...
If you’re unsure when and how often you should get a mammogram, you’re not alone. Conflicting recommendations about breast cancer screenings have caused a lot of confusion about what type of screening regimen can best protect...
Why Is Breast Cancer Awareness Important?
With women in the U.S. facing an approximately 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer in their lifetimes, awareness of this persistent threat to women’s health is critical. It’s...
September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women. The American Cancer Society estimates that in the U.S. this year, approximately 22,440 women will be...
It’s always important to understand the potential risks and benefits of any medical procedure your doctor recommends. When you’re pregnant, this is essential to protect both your health and the health of your developing fetus....
If your doctor recommends you undergo a sonohysterogram, you may not be fully aware of what that entails. This exam has several benefits, but also requires certain steps to ensure you are prepared ahead of time.
When your doctor recommends a medical procedure, it’s important that you understand the potential benefits and risks involved. There has been much debate in recent years about the relative benefits and risks of imaging procedures...
There is a lot of talk about mammograms in the news lately. You’ve likely seen a variety of recommendations and opinions about whether to have mammograms and if so, when to start, how often to get them, and what kind to get. It’s...
An important advancement in women’s health care, screening mammography has come a long way since it began to gain acceptance in the 1950s. Over time, technological advances have resulted in continual improvements in image quality...
Deciding to have your first mammogram is an important step in protecting yourself against breast cancer. Randomized controlled trials suggest that mammography screening reduces the odds of dying of breast cancer by 15–20% for...
You've probably heard of a virtual colonoscopy before, but you may not have an idea of what it really is. Below are several frequently asked questions about the procedure to help you decide whether it's a good choice for your...
What is transvaginal ultrasound?
In any type of ultrasound examination, a transducer sends out sound waves and receives their echoes, which are then translated into a real-time picture of the internal structures being imaged....
Mammography is the standard for breast cancer screening, but it’s not the only imaging method that doctors use to get information about breast conditions and possible cancers. In some cases, ultrasound or MRI are chosen to...
My doctor said my mammogram showed calcifications. Is that bad?
Calcifications are very common, especially after menopause. In fact, they appear on roughly half of mammograms of women over age 50, and they typically are not cause...
Each year, National Men’s Health week encompasses the week up to and including Fathers Day, and the Friday of that week is designated as “Wear Blue Day” to encourage people across the country show their support for the health of...
The first Sunday of each June, the U.S. and many other countries around the world recognize National Cancer Survivors Day, “a celebration for those who have survived, aninspiration for those recently diagnosed, a gathering of...
Have you ever wondered why your doctor chooses to order one type of imaging over another? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound are two modalities that can sometimes be used for the same purposes. Understanding the...
During National Women's Health Week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health strives to empower women to make their health a priority and take steps to live healthier lives. Women are more likely...
May is National Cancer Research Month, a time designated to recognizing the importance of all who contribute to the fight against cancer. Decades of research have led to dramatic advances in the detection and treatment of many...
According to the CDC, 7.5 million American women between the ages of 15–44 struggle with infertility or fecundity (ability to become pregnant or carry a baby to term). April 23–29, 2017, is National Infertility Awareness Week, an...
April is National Cancer Control Month, which highlights advances in fighting cancer: prevention, early detection, and treatment. Cancer remains the second leading cause of death among Americans of all ethnic groups combined.[1]...
April has been designated National Cancer Control Month to increase awareness of what Americans can do to prevent and control cancer. Cancer control is about more than prevention; it’s also about accessing effective treatment and...
You know you should be getting annual screening mammograms, but how do you choose the best breast imaging provider? One of the first steps to take in preparing for your mammogram is to research the facilities in your area. Here...
Endometriosis is a disorder in which the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (called endometrium) grows outside the uterus, intruding into the pelvic organs (the ovaries and fallopian tubes) and other tissue...
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. “Colorectal cancer” is a general term used to describe cancers that begin in the colon or rectum. The American Cancer Society estimates that 39,910 new cases of rectal cancer and 95,520...
When it was first used on a human subject in 1977, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) was an important advance in medical imaging, making it possible for the first time to create detailed images that can provide vital health...
1 in 3 deaths in the U.S. result from heart disease or stroke, amounting to about 2,200 deaths each day. One American dies of stroke approximately every four minutes. Since 1964, February has been recognized as American Heart...
In addition to National Cancer Prevention Month, Thursday, February 2 is National Cancer Prevention Day, and Saturday, February 4 is World Cancer Day, an annual event promoted by the Union for International Cancer Control and...
If you’ve never had a mammogram, you may not know quite what to expect the first time. Don’t let fear of the unknown cause you to miss out on the important health information that mammography screening provides. While getting a...
If you’re expecting a baby (or even if you’re not), you’re probably aware that obstetric ultrasound is commonly recommended at least once during pregnancy. Many parents-to-be look forward to their ultrasound appointment because...
Have you made a list of New Year's resolutions? Here are 5 that are worth keeping for a healthier 2017!
For all the things we love about the holidays, like great food, time with friends and family, and celebration of the good things in life, it can also be an incredibly stressful time of year. The pressure to plan the perfect...
Paget’s disease, also called Paget’s disease of the nipple or mammary Paget’s disease (not to be confused with Paget's disease of the bone), is a rare form of breast cancer that accounts for about 1% of all breast cancer cases....
What Are the Risks of Colon Cancer?
If you’re turning 50 or have a condition that puts you at a higher than average risk for colon cancer, you’ve probably been told that you should have a colonoscopy. It’s true that colon cancer...
Since 1985, the Society of Breast Imaging (SBI) has sought to save lives through early breast cancer detection and the education patients, physicians, and organizations across the globe. Currently, they are conducting a campaign...
November 8 is the International Day of Radiology (IDoR)! 2016 marks the fifth IDoR as well as the 121st anniversary of Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen’s discovery of the X-ray. To commemorate the event, more than 100 medical societies...
Next week is National Radiologic Technology Week, an annual recognition of the important work of radiologic technologists (RTs). First celebrated the week of July 22, 1979, the celebration was later moved to November to coincide...
Especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want you to have all the information you need to protect your health with cancer prevention and early detection strategies. Here are our top four tips for minimizing your risk...
Where you choose to have your mammogram matters. According to a Department of Radiology study at the University of California Medical Center, breast imaging specialists detect more cancers at earlier stages and recommend more...
The controversy that has surrounded mammography screening in the past few years has many women questioning whether they should keep coming in for their annual mammograms (or, for those just turning 40, whether to start). Here is...
While not all cancers are preventable, we have considerable power to protect ourselves from a wide range of illnesses, including cancers, by making healthy choices every day. Because September is Fruits and Veggies: More Matters...
September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Each year in the U.S., more than 22,000 women are diagnosed and more than 14,000 women die of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is particularly deadly because it can be very difficult to...
When you have your annual screening mammogram, the radiologist—a doctor with specialized training to read and interpret such images— examines your mammogram and then sends a report to your referring physician. But how do...
Caring for another person, whether a child, parent, spouse, or another loved one, is often much more than a full-time job. When someone is dependent on you, it’s easy to start thinking that you simply don’t get to take care of...
Although successfully completing breast cancer treatment is always cause for celebration, the fight doesn’t end there. It is important to follow your doctors’ instructions for follow-up care to help you stay healthy, deal with...
Comfort is important for everyone, particularly during unusually stressful situations. When children have to endure medical procedures, however, providing comfort is vital. Medical procedures, including radiologic imaging, and...
What is cardiac calcium?
Over time, the LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol in our blood can accumulate in artery walls, particularly after they have been damaged by factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, or diabetes. White blood...
In the past, patients with cancer and other conditions were strongly advised to rest and save their energy. We have come to understand, however, that exercise can actually increase the amount of energy patients have as well as...
Iowa Radiology supports the recommendations of the American College of Radiology, the Society of Breast Imaging, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists that women begin having annual mammograms at age 40....
When you need to undergo a medical procedure, it’s natural to have a lot of questions. What is routine for healthcare providers often involves a great deal of new information for patients. In non-emergency situations, don’t...
A sonohysterogram or saline infusion sonogram (SHG) is a minimally invasive ultrasound imaging procedure that allows a radiologist to examine the interior of the uterus and the endometrium. One reason your doctor may recommend a...
Mammography, Breast Ultrasound, and Breast MRI
You probably are aware of the recommendation that women receive annual screening mammograms beginning at age 40. Mammography, however, is not the only imaging method that is used to...
A callback after your mammogram doesn’t mean anything is wrong.
It’s natural to be concerned any time you get medical test results that come back as anything except 100% normal, especially when the test is a cancer screening....
Annual mammography beginning at age 40 has been shown to be a highly effective way of reducing breast cancer mortality. If you’ve decided to schedule yearly breast cancer screenings, you’re taking an important step in protecting...
A sonohysterogram is a minimally invasive ultrasound imaging (also called “sonography”) procedure that allows a radiologist to examine the interior of the uterus and its lining (endometrium).
In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8, we’re highlighting a vital aspect of women’s health care that receives far too little attention: heart health. Traditionally (and erroneously), heart disease and heart attacks...
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. It often begins with the growth of a polyp on the inside of the colon. Early detection dramatically increases the...
Annual mammography screening has been on the forefront of the fight against breast cancer for decades. Although mammography began to gain acceptance as a useful diagnostic tool as early as the 1950s[1], the technology has evolved...
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in the U.S.; the average risk of a woman developing breast cancer in her lifetime is 1 in 8. For some women with additional risk factors, including a family or personal...
What is inflammatory breast cancer, and how is it different from other types of breast cancer?
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare and particularly aggressive form of breast cancer, in which cancer cells clog the lymph...
Invasive (or infiltrating) lobular carcinoma (ILC) is a type of breast cancer that began in the milk-producing lobules, which empty into the ducts that carry milk to the nipple, and has spread into surrounding tissue. It is the...
What is LCIS?
Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) describes the growth of abnormal cells in the breast lobules, the milk-producing glands at the ends of the milk ducts. “In situ” means that the abnormal cells are contained in their...
The American Cancer Society’s (ACS) recent release of yet another set of mammography screening guidelines is adding to the confusion over just when and how often women should undergo mammography. Despite this move by the ACS,...
Paul Keller was born in California to parents who were both college professors, one in physics and one in mathematics. The family, which includes his two brothers, moved to Northfield, Minnesota when Paul was 12. He remained in...
Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), also known as stage 0 breast cancer, is the most common form of non-invasive breast cancer, accounting for about 20% of all new breast cancer cases. “Ductal” indicates that the cancer is found...
If you or your provider notices a lump or abnormality in your breast tissue, after other non-invasive diagnostic imaging like mammograms, CT scanning, or breast MRI, he or she may have recommended you undergo a biopsy. A biopsy...
Maybe it was in the shower. Or while you were dressing. Maybe it was at the doctor’s office. Wherever you were when you found the lump in your breast, you had the same fear: is it breast cancer?
Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, and MRIs are extremely useful and advanced methods of detecting and investigating abnormalities deep inside the body. Sometimes, however, it’s impossible to determine from these...
Dr. Heggen specializes in diagnostic radiology, breast imaging and biopsy at Iowa Radiology. He’s a native Iowan, born in Des Moines and raised in Northeast and Central Iowa along with his identical twin – who is also a...
