NORWAY – Stephens Memorial Hospital is working with the American Cancer Society to increase the public’s awareness of the issues surrounding breast cancer.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

It’s the goal of the mammography staff at the hospital to bring attention to breast cancer awareness, education and treatment throughout the entire year, not only in October, according to a hospital spokesman.

Following guidelines from the American Cancer Society for early detection, the staff recommends that, starting at age 40, women at average risk have an annual mammogram. However, they now place more emphasis on educating women, especially those at increased risk for breast cancer, about the benefits and limits of mammography and other screening methods. Additional strategies include starting screening earlier, doing it at shorter intervals or adding other possibilities, such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging.

Access to mammography screening for under- or uninsured patients is provided through a no-charge coupon program sponsored by the hospital and distributed to local health-care providers. These coupons are distributed at the discretion of the practitioner to women who meet specific criteria.

Timothy C. Ingram, director of clinical diagnostics at Stephens Memorial, said, “We strive to provide services that are easily accessible and affordable to the community.”

The Mammography Center at Stephens Memorial Hospital offers a full range of breast care services – diagnosis, education and treatment. The department has added the consultation services of a post-mastectomy prosthetics fitter, who is employed by the Women’s Health and Specialty Services Center in Pittsfield. For more information on the Mammography Center and the full range of its services, phone 743-5933, ext. 389.

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