Several metro Atlanta hospitals are using 3-D technology for mammograms in an effort to reduce false positives and detect some cancers earlier.

At Emory University hospitals, the technology has reduced the need for women to return for a followup mammogram or biopsy and it might just save lives.

“There hasn’t been a real advance in mammography in a long time,” said Dr. Michael Cohen, director of the Division of Breast Imaging for Emory Healthcare. “This is a huge step forward.”

Cohen said 3-D is recommended for all women, but it’s particularly effective for women with dense breast tissue.

The technology costs more and patients receive a greater dose of radiation, but some doctors think it’s worth using 3-D and say radiation is still within acceptable levels.

Learn more about 3-D imaging and whether you can benefit.