Breast cancer is a dangerous disease, with more than 1,300 women expected to be diagnosed in West Virginia in 2014. As the fight against breast cancer continues, West Virginia communities are coming together to spread the word about prevention and early detection.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and West Virginia is recognizing this special month with a variety of activities. Locally, the Berkeley County Council and the Jefferson County Commission both proclaimed October as National Breast Cancer Awareness at their respective meetings on Thursday, October 2.
The goal of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is to increase awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer. Currently, the best method to reduce deaths due to breast cancer is through early detection. The American Cancer Society recommends a yearly mammogram for women starting at the age of 40.
University Healthcare is offering discounted mammogram clinics each Saturday in October at both Berkeley Medical Center in Martinsburg and Jefferson Medical Center in Ranson. The discounted fee for the screening mammogram and interpretation is $60 (no insurance accepted – cash, credit card or check only).
The screening mammograms are open to women 35 and older and a physician’s order is not required. Patients without a physician will be assigned a physician to receive the test results. For more information or to register, call Berkeley Medical Center at 304.264.1297 or Jefferson Medical Center at 304.724.5647.
