A woman's chance of developing invasive breast cancer at some time in her life is estimated to be one in seven. Early detection, however, makes the difference in breast cancer survival. For women in Orange County, access to the latest technological advances for early detection of breast disease is now available at the new Hoag Breast Care Center. Hoag Breast Care Center is the first and only center in Orange County to provide direct digital mammography services. Direct digital mammography provides higher contrast resolution images, which allows radiologists to immediately view areas that may look suspicious or cause for concern. This technology also eliminates the need for multiple x rays and hospital visits, thereby allowing more time to be spent on detection and prevention. Hoag Breast Care Center is also home to Orange County's only breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. The breast MRI uses magnetic resonance imaging to determine what the inside of the breast looks like without the need for surgery. Additional diagnostic tools such as breast ultrasound are available as well as leading-edge treatment options, including cryoablation, a minimally invasive alternative to the surgical removal of tumors. A dedicated team of radiologists, surgeons and breast care coordinators are also on site, providing the highest level of patient comfort and care. In 2005, more than 200,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed among women in the United States. For women in Orange County, having access to the most advanced screening technologies, progressive treatment options and a wealth of support and information is more than good news. It is comforting to know that the one of the country's premier breast health care centers is so close to home. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 800/309-9729.