October is Breast cancer awareness month. One in eight women develops breast cancer! Most women who get the disease have no family history.
Breast cancer risk increases with age so that’s why annual screening is recommended by the American Cancer Society for those 40 and older, or earlier for those who may have other risk factors.
“With regular screening via mammograms, breast cancer can be found early and treated,” says Jan Hegman, Riverwood’s oncology care coordinator and nurse practitioner who helps patients navigate breast cancer treatment. “Screenings can be literally life-saving! I encourage women to stay proactive, having an annual screening mammogram, which can detect breast lumps before they can be felt.”
In October, Riverwood will be offering convenient, late afternoon appointments on several Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 5, Oct. 12 and Oct. 26 at Riverwood Healthcare Center, in Aitkin only. For those who have health insurance, this may be a convenient evening time to fit a busy work and family schedule. Allow about 30 minutes for the exam and mammogram.
Appointments are required as there is limited availability. To schedule a breast cancer screening, call Riverwood’s Radiology department at (218) 927-5515.
Difficulty in paying for a mammogram due to no health insurance or a high-deductible insurance plan? Riverwood participates with the SAGE program through the Minnesota Department of Health, which will cover the cost of the mammogram, for those who fit specified income guidelines. For more information, ask for a SAGE flyer from any Riverwood clinic or go to http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/healthimprovement/working-together/who-we-are/sage.html
