MENDOCINO Co., 10/22/18 — Adventist Health Ukiah Valley is hosting two “pink parties” this week to highlight Breast Cancer Awareness Month, on Wednesday, October 24 and Thursday, October 25. The events will feature mammograms, chair massages, hand wax dips, goodie bags, snacks, giveaways, and more.
The parties help bring awareness to breast cancer, and the importance of regular screenings, especially for women over 40. To get a mammogram, you should register in advance, but bringing a friend to enjoy the party is encouraged.
Here’s the full press release:
Adventist Health Encourages Mammograms During Breast Awareness Cancer Month
October 11, 2018 (Ukiah, Calif.) – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Adventist Health Ukiah Valley is encouraging regular breast screenings as an important part of a healthy future for Mendocino County men and women. As a way to show support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month Adventist Health Ukiah Valley is hosting two Pink Parties Wednesday, October 24th and Thursday, October 25th at Mendocino Radiology 1162 South Dora Street #D in Ukiah. These Pink Parties will include pampering such as chair massages and special giveaways.
“There are so many types of cancer, with many of them there is no screening process. We are so fortunate that we do have a proven method of screening for breast cancer. We have technology now that is so far beyond anything we could have imagined a decade ago.” says Honalee Newman, director of the Medical Imaging department.
One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, and early detection is key to treating the disease. “It is true that women who obtain routine mammography screenings are able to detect breast cancer at a much earlier stage which means they are less likely to need aggressive treatments such as mastectomy or chemotherapy, and more likely to be cured.,” shared Honalee Newman
Adventist Health Ukiah Valley’s 3D Mammography service has increased detection capability for residents. Studies show that 3D mammography results in a 29% increase in detection of all breast cancers and a 41% increase in detection of invasive breast cancers.
The American Cancer Society recommends that starting at age 40 women at average risk should have the choice to begin yearly mammograms. Newman recommends patients discuss their risks factors and appropriate screenings with their healthcare provider.
Honalee Newman, director of Medical Imaging with over 16 years of experience, oversees mammography screenings at Adventist Health Ukiah Valley’s Medical Imaging locations in Ukiah. She offers these tips to women to prepare for their mammogram screening:
What to wear. Wear a two-piece outfit (a shirt with pants, a skirt or shorts) so that you’ll only have to remove your top and bra. It’s also important to not apply deodorant, lotions or other ointments on the chest or underarm area as it can mimic breast cancer in the images.
When to schedule. Breasts can be tender the week before and during menstrual periods, so Newman recommends scheduling mammograms one to two weeks after your period starts.
What to expect. During the 3D imaging session, an X-ray tube moves in an arc over the breast, taking multiple images in a matter of seconds. This is done with the same two compressions per breast as a 2D mammogram. The entire appointment takes about 20 minutes; however, the procedure is about 5-10 minutes.
Getting the results. You will be contacted by your primary care provider or our Breast Health Nurse Navigator, Maria Watson, to schedule further follow up imaging if needed.
“Knowledge is key, taking control of your future by being proactive in your own healthcare. Early detection saves lives every day. I am so blessed to have worked in this field for the past 16 years, to see the advances in technology grow in leaps and bounds, and to lead an amazing team who love what they get to do every day!” – Honalee Newman, Director of Imaging ARRT (R)(CT)(M)
Adventist Health Ukiah Valley’s 3D Mammography service began offering the latest technology to the Ukiah area in December 2017. 3D Mammography exams are covered and paid for by Medicare and Medicaid and most private insurances. 3D mammography exams are offered at Adventist Health Ukiah Valley’s Mendocino Radiology 1162 South Dora Street #D and the Outpatient Pavilion located at 245 Hospital Drive, Ukiah. Appointments for 3D mammography screenings are available by calling 707.463.7342
