Community Corner
Many DeKalb Women Skipping Mammograms
Learn about free breast cancer screenings available in the Decatur area.
As we enter the month of October, you are probably seeing pink ribbons popping up in support of breast cancer awareness. It’s also likely that you know someone who is battling the disease.
About one in eight women in the U.S. will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her life.
According to Susan G. Komen for the Cure Greater Atlanta, DeKalb County has the third highest rate of breast cancer within the Komen Atlanta 10-county service area. And based on trending data, DeKalb County is expected to rise to second highest by the year 2014.
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Early detection of breast cancer is important. Women need to be vigilant about their health. Out of the ten counties, DeKalb has the second highest number of women not receiving a mammogram within the past year.
Fortunately, in Decatur there are several options for women to get free screenings or mammograms.
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Through the , women can get help from the breast and cervical cancer program at the on 440 Winn Way. Here, low-income and under- or uninsured women can get screenings and follow-up care for little or no charge.
At , uninsured women can receive free mammograms, through its mobile health clinic, “Wellness on Wheels.” It takes some of the hassle out of scheduling an appointment and women don’t need a referral from their doctor for routine screenings.
It’s equally important for women to perform monthly self breast exams. An irregularity or area of concern during a self exam is scary.
So it’s comforting to know women can call DeKalb Medical’s Specialized Breast Care Center and speak directly to a professional. Trained nurses will answer any questions and schedule an appointment immediately.
Newly diagnosed women will find support in the Decatur area. DeKalb Medical offers a breast cancer support group called Sisters By Choice, for those battling the disease. The group meets the last Thursday in the month.
For more information on Sisters By Choice call 404-370-5210.
For more information on the DeKalb County Board of Health’s breast and cervical program call 404-294-3762.
To speak with someone at DeKalb Medical’s Specialized Breast Care Center call 404-501-EASY(3279).
To schedule a regular mammogram or breast cancer test at DeKalb Medical call 404-501-2660.
