‘Mammothon’ offers convenient breast cancer screenings, other services

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.

Franciscan St. Francis Health-Indianapolis wants to make it more convenient for women. That’s why it’s sponsoring Mammothon, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, Oct. 7.

The event will be held at the Breast Center area near entrance 5 at 8111 S. Emerson Ave.

In addition to mammograms and consultations with physicians and specialists, the hospital will provide free bone density, blood pressure and cholesterol screenings; free chair massages and skin care demonstrations by Lancóme Cosmetics; and refreshments and door prizes. Those scheduling a screening mammogram during the event will receive a free Vera Bradley® gift.

The 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.

In addition to clinical exams, the ACS recommends that women 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year and should keep on doing so 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.

To learn more about Mammothon, breast cancer and services available at St. Francis Cancer Center, go to www.mammothon.com.