by HOLLY KING
Orcas Library
Orcas Library is sponsoring a Health and Wellness week from June 10 to 15.
Part of our offering is bringing up the mobile mammography unit from Assured Imaging – the largest mobile mammography provider in the United States. They have the latest technology and recently just set a record for the most mammograms done in one day in a mobile setting.
The highly trained staff will be performing screening mammograms in a private office at the county end of the Senior Services building.
The American Cancer Society recommends that women over the age of 40 have an annual screening. Yet almost half of those eligible don’t do it. Why? Here are some commonly reported reasons:
1. A mammogram takes too long. In fact, the average appointment is less 20 minutes from start to finish. And it’s a lot less time to do it on-island, rather than taking a whole day off.
2. They cost too much. Medicare and most major insurance companies will cover the cost of the screening. And if you don’t have insurance, Assured Imaging is offering a cash cost of only $165. Other mammography facilities charge more than double that.
3. It hurts. Well, it may be uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t hurt. (It’s mostly anxiety.) Compression of the breast tissue not only allows for a better visualization but it also reduces the amount of radiation necessary.
4. Fear of finding something. As if not knowing about cancer will somehow magically make it go away?
One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetimes. Look around – you or someone you know will be affected. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the U.S.
Take this important step and have yourself screened. Mammograms can detect cancer in its very early stages – long before most women can feel a lump. With early detection most breast cancers can be successfully treated and cured.
Join us and let Assured Imaging put all your worries to rest. Every woman who has a mammogram will be entered in a drawing for a fabulous gift card!
We are expecting a full schedule so don’t wait. Call now to schedule an appointment. The number is 1-888-233-6121.
