The Anson County Health Department wears pink in support of breast cancer awareness month, and offers education on Breast Cancer.
“This is the month where people paint the world pink and support the fighters, survivors and honor those who were taken,” said Dinika Savage, public health educator. “While supporting friends and loved ones, it is also important to offer valuable facts on the disease, and share useful information on lowering the risk of breast cancer.”
Breast cancer risk increases with age and women with inherited genetics are at high risk of breast cancer.
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women in the United States. African-American women under the age of 35 have a breast cancer rate two times higher than white women the exact age.
In 2016, Anson County’s breast cancer diagnosis was 187 percent higher than the state rate, only 2 percent lower than the county with the worst rate. Statistics reveal that each year it is estimated that over 40,000 women will die from breast cancer. If breast cancer is detected late, the cancer cells can develop aggressively, which can become fatal.
Breast cancer screenings are important factors in preventing and detecting breast cancer. Two popular breast cancer screenings are clinical examinations and mammograms. It is recommended that women undergo regular screenings. The American College of Radiology recommends that all women have a baseline mammogram at the age of 40. Mammograms are recommended annually for women 45-54 years of age and every other year for women 55-74.
The Anson County Health Department provides wellness visits to ensure women have access to mammogram screenings and appointments. Jennifer Dockery, the health department’s nurse practitioner, encourages all women 20 years and older to conduct self-breast exams. Dockery also advises women to be seen annually by their provider for clinical breast exams.
Atrium Health Anson offers mammography screening. Free mammography screening is provided to women who are local and do not have health insurance. Based on results, patients will be referred to Charlotte Radiology Breast Center in Monroe for a full diagnostic mammography if needed.
The Anson County Health Department is at 110 Ashe St. in Wadesboro. Atrium Health Anson is at 2301 U.S. 74 in Wadesboro. Charlotte Radiology Breast Center in Monroe is at 1550 Faulk St.