Screening saves lives

It’s something no woman wants to think is even possible. The prospect of getting breast cancer is terrifying, but unfortunately very real.

This year, 207,090 cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the United States. Of those, 39,840 will die.

Despite what we may tell ourselves, ignorance is not bliss when it comes to caring for our bodies and our health. This is especially true when it comes to breast cancer. The risk of dying increases greatly when breast cancer is diagnosed at its more advanced stages.

For this reason, organizers of an upcoming local screening are hoping to educate and inform the community with the goal that every woman will make the effort to get breast cancer screening, even if she has no insurance.

Uninsured and poorly insured women can take advantage of free breast health screenings next month. For those at average risk of getting breast cancer, medical professionals recommend that women have a mammogram every year starting at age 40.

Offered by Southwest Washington Medical Center’s Kearney Breast Center and Breast and Cervical Health Program, the clinic will offer clinical breast exams and digital screening mammograms.

The event will be held Saturday, Oct. 23, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Kearney Breast Center, 200 N.E. Mother Joseph Place, Ste. 420, in Vancouver.

For more information and to determine eligibility, call 514-1663.

As women, we shouldn’t ignore our health or our bodies, no matter what our background.