ROCK SPRINGS — A new machine will help with the detection of breast cancer.

“What I’d like everybody to know is at the last Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County Board meeting, it was approved to purchase a brand new 3D mammogram machine,” MHSC chairman Taylor Jones said.

According to the Mayo Clinic’s website, “A 3D mammogram (breast tomosynthesis) is an imaging test that combines multiple breast X-rays to create a three-dimensional picture of the breast.

“A 3D mammogram is used to look for breast cancer in people who have no signs or symptoms,” the website states. “It can also be used to investigate the cause of breast problems, such as a breast mass, pain and nipple discharge.”

“It is the latest and greatest technology.” Jones said. “The only one like it in this part of the state.”

Jones said what is even more exciting about this purchase is the MHSC Foundation Board has agreed to pay for the $400,000 machine.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to thank the community for supporting the foundation,” Jones said.

Jones said those who attended the Foundation’s Red Tie Gala and Gold Tournament fundraisers helped this purchase become a reality.

“It’s really kind of come full circle. The community helps the foundation, the foundation helps the hospital, the hospital in turn purchases equipment that helps the communities,” Jones said.

This 3D mammogram machine was a project the hospital and foundation started working on three years ago. Unfortunately, at that time, the hospital wasn’t in the financial condition to purchase the machine.

“Quite frankly, we couldn’t afford it,” Jones said. “We all knew it was a need. We all wanted it. We couldn’t afford it.”

The foundation board decided to start putting money toward this project three years ago.

“It’s a need in our community,” Jones said. “It will probably serve about 2,200 people per year.”

This new piece of equipment will help the hospital detect cancer in patients, which is prevalent Sweetwater County.

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Studies show that combining 3D mammograms with standard mammograms reduces the need for additional imaging and slightly increases the number of cancers detected during screening.”