Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- Many women dread it, others don’t know when to start. But the
American Cancer Society says mammograms are a must. On Wednesday, NewsChannel 9 helped more than 100 women take the first step by helping them sign up for a free breast cancer screening.
A government panel recently advised that women should wait to be screened until their 50th birthday. The American Cancer Society disagrees.
Doctor Deepa Masrani, a radiologist who specializes in mammography at Upstate University Hospital recommends the following:
- Yearly mammograms starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman is in good health
- Clinical breast exam (CBE) about every 3 years for women in their 20s and 30s and every year for women 40 and over
- Women should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast change promptly to their health care provider. Breast self-exam (BSE) is an option for women starting in their 20s.
Free cancer screening informationMen and women need to get regular health care screenings. The
NYS Cancer Services Program can help. The program offers free breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screenings and diagnostic services for those without health insurance.
Jenny Dickinson with the NYS Cancer Services Program says according to recent Federal studies just under 40 percent of uninsured women actually get a mammogram.
Screening services are provided at a variety of convenient locations throughout Onondaga County. Call 435-3653 to see if you are eligible for a free breast, colorectal or cervical cancer screening. Outside Onondaga County call 1-866-442-2262 to get information on cancer screenings in your area.
