The Tickled Pink Survivors and Texas County Memorial Hospital are hosting the Pink Ribbon Reception to raise awareness about the importance of mammograms in honor of National Mammography Day.
The event – called a Pink Ribbon Reception – is 4-6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26, in the front hospital’s lobby.
“TCMH is committed to providing access to healthcare for all,” said Wes Murray, chief executive officer at TCMH. “The TCMH radiology department routinely offers a low-cost mammogram available every day of the year and in honor of National Mammography Day, we want to encourage and to help area women get a screening mammogram.”
According to the American Cancer Society, annual mammograms lower the number of deaths caused by breast cancer by more than 30 percent. Mammograms are the best action that a woman older than 40 can take to detect any breast cancer or other problem early – when it’s most treatable.
Mammography is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose X-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the diagnosis of breast diseases in women. Women age 40 and older should have regular mammography screening exams.
The reception will include a giveaway of a free screening mammogram for women without insurance or women who don’t qualify for the Show-Me Healthy Women program. Persons can sign up for the drawing at the event or if they are unable to attend, they can call the Tickled Pink Survivors at 417-967-1322.
The reception will also feature the “MammoPad,” a soft, warm, single-use foam cushion that is placed between the patient and the surface of the mammography machine and information about mammography, breast cancer and women’s health and support services available in Texas County. Pink treats will be served.