Pixabay/October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
SOMERS POINT - October is nationally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month thanks to the campaign started by the National Breast Cancer Organization 35 years ago. To support of this initiative, Shore Medical Center Cancer Center, a member of the Penn Cancer Care Network, and Advance Shore Imaging Associates of Northfield will be holding free breast cancer screenings in a COVID-safe environment 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24 at Advanced Shore Imaging Associates, 2065 Shore Road, Northfield. Light refreshments will be offered.
According to the New Jersey Department of Health, more than 7,500 women in New Jersey are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, and more than 1,500 women lose their lives to the disease.
Shore Medical Director Dr. Vijay Sandilya said breast cancers screenings save lives.
"Breast cancer is an awful disease, but if detected early enough, the odds of survival rate increase dramatically, Sandilya said. The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms beginning at age 40, unless there is a family history. Unfortunately, many people are putting their health on hold due to Covid-19 and the down economy in Atlantic County. Many people are uninsured or underinsured, so we are proudly partnering with Advanced Shore Imaging Associates to be offering these vitals screenings for free.
A script or imaging order from a physician is required for the screenings. Sandilya will be offering a clinical breast exam and will provide scripts for those who would like to participate.
Radiologist Dr. Alicia Daniels of Advanced Shore Imaging Associates will interpret and read all reports of the mammograms.
To book a screening appointment, call 609-653-3484.
