News Center

Monday, September 10, 2012

‘Mammothon’ offers breast cancer screenings at 4 St. Francis Health locations


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:

·         Franciscan St. Francis-Carmel
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.