March 28, 2024

CCH thinks pink for breast cancer awareness

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Clarke County Hospital wants to stress the importance of preventive breast care through annual mammograms.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, but cancers detected in its earliest stages have a 98 percent cure rate, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).

Janelle Baker, diagnostic imaging manager at Clarke County Hospital, believes regular screening is vital.

“Mammograms save lives,” Baker said, “Treatments for cancers in its earliest stages are safer and less intensive on patients, and the key to finding cancer is through the mammogram.”

Women 40 years and older are recommended to screen for breast cancer through a mammogram every year. Women with family members who were diagnosed with breast cancer may be at a higher risk and need to talk with their health-care provider about additional preventive care.

Clarke County Hospital offers digital mammography year round, covered by most insurance providers and Medicare. This advanced technology records images more clearly and allows medical staff and radiologists to enhance the image for a more accurate diagnosis. To schedule an appointment, call 641-342-5353.

“Though October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, women should be conscious of their health throughout the year,” Baker said. ”Awareness is the first step – and a very important one.”

About Clarke County Hospital

Clarke County Hospital is a 25-bed, critical access hospital with advanced diagnostic and telemedicine technology.

Through telemedicine and visiting physicians, patients can receive specialized care close to home, including cardiology; nephrology; neurology; oncology; hepatology; general and vascular surgery; orthopedics; dermatology; pulmonology; gastroenterology; urology; and ear, nose and throat (ENT) services.