INDIANAPOLIS
– With early detection, diagnosis and treatment options, more patients are
beating breast cancer, yet many women don’t seek annual mammography screenings
for a variety of reasons.
In
recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Franciscan St.
Francis Cancer Center is hosting its 2nd annual
Mammothon throughout October. Each event offers extended screening hours and a
variety of other activities designed to celebrate women’s health, making it
more convenient for women to schedule one of the most important cancer
screenings.
The
events will be at four hospital locations:
12188 B N. Meridian St.
6 a.m.-6 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 5
8111 S. Emerson Ave.
6 a.m.-9 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 12
1201 Hadley Road
6 a.m.-9 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 19
·
Franciscan
Plainfield Health Center
315 Dan Jones Road
6 a.m.-6 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 26
In
addition to screening mammograms, the hospital will provide free bone density
and heart screenings, massages, skin care demonstrations by Lancôme Cosmetics,
and other health education information. Also, Franciscan St. Francis physicians
will be on hand to discuss women’s health issues. Refreshments and door prizes
will be offered to participants. Those scheduling a screening mammogram during
the event will receive a free Vera Bradley® gift.
Mammograms
are by appointment only and can be made by calling 855-837-8830. All major
insurances are accepted.
For
those who qualify, financial assistance is available through the Little Red
Door Cancer Agency. Call 317-925-5595 for more information.
The
American Cancer Society estimates that more than 230,000 new cases of invasive
breast cancer occur annually in the United States. The survival rate has
improved significantly because of mammogram screenings and early detection.
In
addition to clinical exams, the ACS recommends that women 40 and older should
have a screening mammogram every year for as long as they are in good health.
Although
regular mammograms can reduce breast cancer deaths by more than 30 percent,
nearly one-third of eligible women do not get regular screenings.
For
additional event information, visit www.mammothon.com.
