Mega Doctor News
In the United States, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, per the National Breast Cancer Foundation, making it the second leading cause of cancer death among women.
While advances in screenings and treatment have helped reduce the overall risk of death from breast cancer, the number of cases diagnosed continues to rise. In fact, this year alone, nearly 317,000 women are expected to receive a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer, per the Breast Cancer Foundation.
To increase the chances of surviving breast cancer, early detection is paramount by helping improve the chances of successful treatment.
A noninvasive X-ray used to detect cancer and abnormalities in the breast, mammograms are the most effective screening tool for detecting breast cancer early, per the American College of Radiology, which allows for timely treatment before the disease has spread and helps improve patient outcomes.
“Breast cancer is generally easier to treat when detected early, resulting in a higher chance of survival for the patient,” says Tom Castaneda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, South Texas Health System. “Considered the gold standard screening technique for breast cancer detection, mammograms can help find cancer years before symptoms appear, making these screenings crucial to women’s health.”
This May, South Texas Health System will raise awareness of breast cancer and the importance of mammograms for early detection through its annual Cinco de Mammo initiative. Throughout the month, STHS will be urging women to talk to their doctors about their breast cancer risk and encourage them to schedule their regular mammograms, as recommended by their healthcare provider.
Additionally, STHS McAllen, STHS Edinburg, STHS ER Mission and STHS ER Weslaco will offer mammograms and bone density screenings at a reduced cash price through May 31, 2025. Prices include $100 for a 2D digital mammogram, $155 for a 3D digital mammogram and $155 for a bone density (DEXA) scan.
In addition to the screenings, Mammo Mondays will also take place at each of the facilities on designated days. Rio Grande Valley residents will have the opportunity to speak with facility staff about breast cancer screening options, including cash pricing on mammograms, with complimentary light food and refreshments served at each facility on its designated day.
• May 5 – STHS ER Mission
• May 12 – STHS McAllen
• May 19 – STHS Edinburg
• May 26 – STHS ER Weslaco
Walk-in appointments are accepted, but pre-registration is highly encouraged. If you have questions, call the STHSpre-registration line at 956-388-2190.
For more information on Cinco de Mammo and the reduced cash price screenings throughout the month of May, visit CincoDeMammo.com.
