October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month--a perfect time to keep in mind that breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, and the second leading cause of cancer deaths.
During the month of October, West Jefferson Medical Center and Lakeview Regional Medical Center will be offering discounted screenings.
Mammograms for $99 will be offered at the Women’s Imaging & Breast Care Center at West Jefferson Medical Center, 4521 Westbank Expressway in Marrero (located in the West Jefferson Medical Plaza.)
Lakeview Regional Medical Center is offering digital screening mammograms for $50, bone density scans for $50, and digital screening with augmentation for $75. Call (985) 867-4019 to schedule an appointment at LRMC; a physician order is required.
The American Cancer Society recommends that women ages 40 and older have a mammogram every year, and continue to do so for as long as they are in good health, and in consultation with a their physician’s recommendation.
A woman born today has a one in eight chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. According to breastcancer.org, the world’s leading online resource for breast cancer information, it is estimated than 252,710 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the United States this year, along with 63,410 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer. Mortality rates from breast cancer have been decreasing since 1989, with women under the age of 50 experiencing the largest decrease. These decreases are thought to be the result of not only treatment advances, but also earlier detection through screening, and increased awareness.
“Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and the second most common cause of death from cancer in women,” states Mike Hall, MD, Lakeview Regional Radiologist. “Women need to be reminded of, and understand, the importance of self-exams, and know that early detection can save lives. All women are at risk, whether there is a family history or not. We encourage them to take an active role in their health and schedule a screening now,” continues Steve Pflug, MD, Lakeview Regional Radiologist.
By creating and following an Early Detection Plan, chances of detecting breast cancer in its early stages are greatly increased. Personal risk factors should be considered when preparing an Early Detection Plan. These risk factors include diet, weight, alcohol intake, and other lifestyle factors.