Early detection is best way to beat breast cancer
Nearly 100 Butler County women died of breast cancer from 2007 to 2009, the most recent three years recorded by the state Department of Health.
Nationally, the disease affects one in eight women.
Dr. Ruthane Reginella, head radiologist at Butler Memorial Hospital, stresses what can be done to prevent breast cancer.
“Early detection is your best weapon,” said Reginella, who noted that the 5-year survival rate for people diagnosed early is 97 percent. “That is exceptional.”
Mammograms, which are low dose imaging pictures of the breast, are recommended every year for women age 40 and older.
However, busy lives, fear of the procedures, equipment and potential outcomes are reasons women often postpone the procedures, Reginella said.
But she said, “Screening saves lives.”
The Butler Health System does about 15,000 mammograms a year. The majority, about 90 percent, have no issues. Of those patients who have issues, few result in a biopsy, Reginella said.
But still the hospital diagnoses an average of 120 cases of breast cancer a year. Generally, about only one is a man.
“The number one risk factor for breast cancer is being a woman,” Reginella said.
Adagio Health, which has a facility on Sunset Drive in Center Township, last year screened 148 women for breast and cervical cancer through the state’s HealthyWoman program. Additionally, Adagio provided 425 vouchers for mammograms.
“We encourage all women to take their health seriously,” said Adagio’s spokeswoman, Linda Mitchell. “The best chance for successful treatment is early detection.”
October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is a good time to remind women to schedule a screening, Reginella said.
This month the health system will offer free mammography screenings to uninsured or under-insured women at these outpatient services testing sites: BHS Outpatient Services, 260 Butler Commons; BHS Outpatient Services, 101 Alwine Road, Saxonburg; and BHS Outpatient Services, 100 Innovation Drive, Slippery Rock.
Screenings are by appointment only, and a limited number of spaces are available at each site.
Participants should call 1-888-687-0505 to get a voucher, which will be mailed to participant’s homes and must be brought to the screening.
Appointments can be made by calling 724-284-4000.
