Mega Doctor News
It’s a distressing fact: Breast cancer is on the rise in the United States. From 2012 to 2021, there’s been an overall upsurge in incidence rates of the life-threatening disease of about 1% each year, according to the American Cancer Society, with sharper increases reported in women under the age of 50.
Health experts credit the rising rate to a variety of factors including women delaying childbirth, which can increase the risk of certain postpartum breast cancers, increasing obesity rates, decreased physical activity and changes in lifestyle that affect hormone levels.
In the battle against breast cancer, early detection is key. It increases the chances of successful treatment, leading to better patient outcomes and survival rates.
Mammography remains the gold standard when it comes to screening for breast cancer, according to the National Library of Medicine, with mammograms a noninvasive and effective way to detect tumors smaller than 1 cm and well before they can be detected by touch during a physical examination.
This October, South Texas Health System will commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month by launching its annual Think Pink campaign, a monthlong initiative aimed at highlighting the importance of getting an annual mammogram.
To help Rio Grande Valley women take the necessary preventative steps to detect breast cancer early, South Texas Health System is offering mammograms at a reduced cost throughout the month of October at four of its facilities: STHS McAllen, STHS Edinburg, STHS ER Mission and STHS ER Weslaco.
The screening options include a 2D digital mammogram for $100, a 3D digital mammogram for $155 and a bone density screening for $155.
Additionally, complimentary light food and refreshments will be served as each facility during their designated Mammo Monday celebrations. Dates and times are as follows:
October 6, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.: STHS ER Mission
October 13, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.: STHS McAllen
October 20, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.: STHS Edinburg
October 27, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.: STHS ER Weslaco
Per American Cancer Society recommendations, women ages 40 to 44 have the option to screen with a mammogram every year, women 45 to 55 should get mammograms every year and women 55 and older can switch to a schedule of every other year.
“For women at average risk for breast cancer, getting an annual mammogram is considered a cost-effective method for early detection and provide peace of mind,” said Charlie Aguirre, Director of Radiology Services, STHS McAllen. “I encourage women to schedule their mammograms and take advantage of these special cash prices that South Texas Health System is offering during the month of October because you can have peace of mind or make arrangements with your healthcare provider to start treatment right away. Encourage your loved ones to get their mammogram, if they haven’t had one in a while, because no one wants to see their loved ones go through a challenging ordeal.”
In addition to the monthlong cash pricing on mammograms and Mammo Monday festivities at the participating facilities, STHS will be kicking off its Think Pink campaign with its annual Think Pink Parade in the STHS McAllen parking lot on Saturday, October 4, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Community members, local businesses and organizations are invited to decorate their vehicles in support of the important cause. Trophies will be awarded to the best-decorated vehicles in several categories including first responders, community, staff and car/motorcycle club. The event will include a community expo where participants can meet with STHS representatives to learn more about the mammography services at STHS, as well as find out about other breast cancer resources available locally. For complete details, visit the STHS Facebook Events page.
For more information on breast cancer screenings at South Texas Health System and to register for a mammogram, visit https://southtexashealthsystem.com/think-pink/. Walk-in appointments are accepted, but pre-registration is highly encouraged. To make an appointment, you can call the pre-registration line at (956) 388-2190.
