Central Missouri News

Lake Regional Health System will offer Saturday mammogram appointments on October 25 as part of its annual Pinktober event. The fourth Mammothon will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Lake Regional Imaging Center in Osage Beach and the Lake Regional Lebanon Campus.

Brandi Kincaid, APRN, MSN, NP-C, AOCNP, who provides care at Lake Regional Cancer Center, explained the importance of early detection: “Catching breast cancer early is key to successful treatment, and mammograms are the best tool we have to find breast cancer in its earliest stages,” Kincaid said. “Mammograms use X-ray imaging to detect tumors too small to be felt.”

The American Cancer Society recommends regular mammograms for women at average risk for breast cancer. Women ages 40-44 may choose annual screenings, those 45-54 are advised to have yearly exams, and women aged 55-74 can opt for screening every two years or annually based on preference. Screening should continue after age 75 if women are in good health and expect to live at least another decade.

Kincaid noted that personal risk factors might change these recommendations: “Women who have had breast cancer or a family history of breast cancer may need more frequent screening,” she said. “It’s important to discuss screening recommendations with a health care provider to determine the best approach for individual circumstances.”

She also emphasized self-awareness: “Breast self-exams are not a substitute for a mammogram,” Kincaid said. “But they can alert you to changes. If you notice anything unusual, contact your primary care provider.”

The Mammothon event is open to women who are at least 40 years old, free of breast lumps and pain, and due for their annual mammogram. Attendees will receive a gift; insurance is accepted and financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Uninsured patients may get help through the Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks.

Appointments are required by October 10 and can be made online at lakeregional.com/Pinktober.

Lake Regional Cancer Center offers a range of oncology services locally, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, genetic testing, social work support, nutrition counseling, and palliative care.