Kenmore Mercy hosts free breast cancer screening

Knowledge is power, and the early detection of breast cancer through regular mammography screenings saves thousands of lives each year. That's why Kenmore Mercy Hospital, a Catholic Health facility, has teamed up with the Cancer Services Program of Erie County for a free breast cancer screening event for women without health insurance on Saturday, Nov. 17, from 8 a.m. to noon in the hospital's imaging department, 2950 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo.

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women ages 40-55. According to the National Cancer Institute, one in eight American women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.

"The goal of screening exams for early breast cancer detection is to find cancers before they start to cause symptoms," said Michelle Wysocki, RN, program director for the Cancer Services Program of Erie County. "An annual mammogram is still a woman's best protection to safeguard her health, and lack of health insurance should not stop women from getting the care they deserve."

In May, Kenmore Mercy Hospital unveiled its Mammomat Inspiration digital mammography system from Siemens Medical Solutions. Using this new technology, mammography screenings now take about 10 minutes to complete, allowing for staff to see more patients during this event.

The free breast cancer screening event is open to women ages 40 or older who do not have health insurance. Through Cancer Services Program of Erie County, eligible participants may receive diagnostic and, if necessary, treatment options at no cost.

Participants must meet eligibility requirements and appointments are necessary. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, contact Catholic Health's HealthConnection at 716-447-6205.