Women in Wrangell are encouraged to focus on their health during Breast Cancer Awareness month this October. Throughout the month, Wrangell Medical Center will be offering reduced-rate mammograms for locals, lowering the cost by more than 30 percent.
Ann Kramer, head of the Imaging Department at WMC, described the mammography process in a release: “Women age 40 and older may self-request a screening mammogram by calling the WMC Imaging department at 874-7128 to set up an appointment. Then, at the given time, check in with the receptionist at the medical center’s front desk and one of the imaging staff will bring you back to the mammography area.”
Kramer added that while the actual screening takes less than 10 minutes, women should plan on having up to 30 minutes for the whole process. She emphasized that reduced-rate mammograms are for screenings only.
“If you have unusual lumps and bumps or any pain in the breast, then it is important to speak with a physician about getting a diagnostic mammogram,” she said. “We will need the name of the clinician that you wish to have the mammogram results sent to. If your most recent mammogram was performed at another facility than WMC, we will need to send for those films and reports before scheduling you.”
Women getting a screening are also asked not to wear deodorant or heavy lotions or powder, as they can give a false reading. Copies of the mammogram report can be expected within two weeks of the examination.
In addition to having an annual screening mammogram, women can be proactive against the disease by performing monthly self examinations, having clinical examinations, practicing healthy eating habits and maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption and giving up tobacco.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation posts information about creating an early detection plan and more detailed information about breast cancer symptoms and types at its website, http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org.
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