Stones River Hospital Kicks Off Mammogram Drive

October is Breast Awareness Month. In recognition, Stones River Hospital is encouraging women to get their annual mammogram by doing a mammogram drive.

As an incentive for women to get their mammogram the hospital is offering a free tote to those who come in during the month of October for their exam. The bags are also given out all year long when women schedule their first mammogram or come in on their birthday.

Breast cancer is a type of cancer where cells in the breast tissue divide and grow without normal control. It is a widespread and random disease, striking women and men of all ages and races. It is the most prevalent cancer in the world today, with about 1.3 million people diagnosed annually. The exact cause of the disease is unknown, and at this time, there is no cure.

But there is hope. Thanks to heightened awareness, early detection through screening, improved treatment methods and increased access to breast health services, people have a greater chance of survival than ever before.

Glena Vance, the Director of the Radiology Department at Stones River Hospital, states that “the hospital is proud to be able to offer a mammogram screening special to help those women currently without insurance or with insurance that doesn’t cover this screening. The much reduced special price is just $60.00 and includes the actual mammogram as well as covers the radiologist reading fee”.

She adds that when registering the patient should let the admitting office know that they would like the screening special.

According to Glena, “all women should really get their first mammogram by age 40 and then yearly thereafter. If you have a family history of breast cancer then you shouldn’t wait until you are 40. Mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early. We hope as many women as possible will call to schedule their mammogram. You can call 563-7229 to schedule yours today.”