Apollo Spectra Chennai Introduces Next-Generation Breast Cancer Screening Technology

Apollo Spectra Hospital, Alwarpet, has strengthened its women's healthcare services with the introduction of the Hologic Selenia 3D AI Genius Mammography System and Comprehensive Breast Ultrasound Services. The latest addition to the hospital's breast care programme combines advanced breast imaging with dedicated ultrasound services to support earlier detection, more accurate diagnosis and personalised care for women.

Breast cancer continues to be the leading cancer among women in India, making timely screening and early diagnosis more important than ever. Tamil Nadu reports one of the highest breast cancer burdens in the country and is among the top three states nationally, with more than 700 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per 1,00,000 women, behind only Telangana. This high burden is due to socioeconomic development, including delayed first childbirth, lower parity, higher rates of obesity, shorter breastfeeding duration, and physical inactivity. Within the state, Chennai, Coimbatore, and Madurai report a higher incidence of breast cancer than other districts, highlighting the need for targeted awareness, regular screening, and early detection initiatives.

Recognising this growing need for earlier and more accurate detection, Apollo Spectra Hospital has introduced the Hologic Selenia 3D AI Genius Mammography System, an advanced breast imaging technology designed to improve cancer detection while making the screening experience faster and more comfortable.

Unlike conventional mammography, the system captures multiple low-dose images from different angles to create a detailed three-dimensional view of the breast. This enables doctors to detect suspicious abnormalities more clearly, particularly in women with dense breast tissue, while reducing the chances of overlapping tissue obscuring potential findings.

Key benefits of the Hologic Selenia 3D AI Genius Mammography System include:

• Detects up to 41% more invasive breast cancers compared to conventional 2D mammography.
• Reduces unnecessary follow-up tests by lowering false-positive recalls by 15–40%.
• Fast 3.7-second scan time, improving patient comfort and reducing the need for repeat scans.
• Low-dose 3D imaging with radiation exposure comparable to a standard mammogram.

Dr. Selvi Radhakrishna, Senior Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai, Alwarpet, said, "Many women still hesitate to undergo breast cancer screening because of fear or the misconception that it is only necessary when symptoms appear. Advanced imaging technologies enable us to detect abnormalities with greater confidence while making the screening process faster and more comfortable. When breast cancer is detected before it spreads to the lymph nodes, the five-year survival rate can be as high as 96%, highlighting the value of regular screening."

Complementing the mammography system, Comprehensive Breast Ultrasound Services provide additional evaluation for breast abnormalities, particularly in women with dense breast tissue or when further assessment is required. Together, these services offer a more comprehensive approach to breast evaluation, supporting informed treatment decisions tailored to each patient.

While technology plays a crucial role in improving diagnosis, doctors emphasise that awareness and timely screening remain equally important. Women should consult a specialist if they notice any of the following symptoms:

• A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the breast skin
• Bloody nipple discharge
• Persistent pain in one area of the breast
• Nipple inversion or redness

Women above the age of 40, those with a family history of breast cancer, or anyone experiencing unusual breast changes are encouraged to consult their doctor about regular breast screening. By bringing together advanced 3D mammography and comprehensive breast ultrasound services under one roof, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Alwarpet, aims to make high-quality breast imaging more accessible and support timely diagnosis for women.