MELBOURNE, FL – June 7, 2011 – TEPAS Breast Center, a comprehensive breast cancer screening, diagnostic and surgery facility, today announced they now provide an optional thyroid guard for use during mammography to decrease radiation exposure to the thyroid.

Although curable, thyroid cancer is now the fastest growing cancer among woman. Recent studies report that routine dental X-rays and mammograms slightly increase lifetime thyroid cancer risk. This however should not deter woman from undergoing routine checkups.

Similar to thyroid guards available during dental X-rays, TEPAS Breast Center now provides an optional thyroid guard for use during mammography to shield the thyroid. This guard reduces the risk of radiation scattering to the thyroid. Years of exposure can increase the lifetime risk of thyroid cancer.

“Compared to mammography, direct radiation to the thyroid or neck area has a much greater impact on the risk of thyroid cancer,” stated Clifford Gelman, MD, FACS, board-certified general, breast, thyroid and parathyroid surgeon. “TEPAS Breast Center routinely offers the thyroid guard to our patients. Whether or not they choose to use the shield, women are urged to continue annual mammography for breast cancer screening.”

TEPAS Breast Center encourages women to perform monthly self-examinations, undergo routine annual mammograms, and see their primary care provider regularly. One in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Although breast cancer is treatable, the best approach is early detection.

TEPAS Breast Center offers a unique approach to breast health before, during, and after a cancer diagnosis. As Brevard’s only comprehensive breast center, TEPAS Breast Center provides top-quality medical expertise, cutting-edge technology, helpful resources, and compassionate care. TEPAS Breast Center proudly offers digital mammography, breast PET or positron emission mammography (PEM), breast ultrasound, Mammotome® ultrasound-guided biopsies, and SAVI™ brachytherapy/partial breast irradiation. Here you’ll also find a multitude of informational and supportive resources such as an American Cancer Society Resource Center, monthly support groups, certified breast prosthetics fitter, and massage therapist trained in treating cancer patients. For more information, visit www.tepasbreastcenter.com.