Lourdes Breast Cancer Experts Present Community Information Session

Breast cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers among American women, affecting more than 245,000 this year alone, according to the American Cancer Society.

To help educate women and their loved ones, Cherry Hill Health & Racquet Club is offering a free education session on Wednesday, October 26, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., called Understanding Breast Cancer. The event will take place at Cherry Hill Health & Racquet Club, 1820 Old Cuthbert Road, Cherry Hill, NJ, and feature Dr. Malini Iyer, breast cancer surgeon; and Dr. Alexis Harvey, radiation oncologist, both with Lourdes Cancer Program and 21st Century Oncology, as special presenters. The program overview will cover breast cancer risk factors, prevention tips, treatment options and screening guidelines from the American Cancer Society.

When it comes to breast cancer, some risk factors cannot be changed, but there are steps women can take to lower their chances of developing the disease.

“You can't do much about your gender, age or genetics,” said Dr. Iyer. “But by making healthy lifestyle choices and performing regular screenings, you can help lower your breast cancer risk."

The American Cancer Society urges yearly mammogram screenings for all women ages 40 and older.

“Mammograms can save lives,” said Dr. Harvey. “It’s also important that women get their regular mammogram along with a clinical breast exam. Together, these tests can help us identify at-risk patients, which can lead to a greater range of prevention and treatment options.”

The physicians add that for women who are diagnosed with breast cancer, there are more advances today than years ago, and thanks to these advances, many women are living long, healthy lives after treatment.

The breast cancer program is free but registration is requested. Please call 1-888-LOURDES to register.