October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and for St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction, raising awareness about annual mammograms is front and center. They’re encouraging women across the Grand Valley to prioritize mammogram screenings to detect breast cancer early—when it’s most treatable. Statistics are eye-opening: around one in eight women will face breast cancer at some point in their lives.

St. Mary’s Hospital: Supporting Women from Diagnosis to Recovery

Dr. Alicia Swink, director of medical oncology at St. Mary’s Hospital, emphasizes the support available for women diagnosed with breast cancer. “If a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, we’re here to help every step of the way,” she explains, highlighting that treatment often includes surgery, radiation, and therapies like hormone medicines or chemotherapy. This comprehensive support is part of a broader effort to reassure women that they won’t face the journey alone.

The hospital’s approach underscores the critical importance of early intervention. With resources and expert support at hand, women diagnosed with breast cancer can take on the challenges of treatment with a network committed to helping them through the journey.

Importance of Regular Mammograms Starting at 40

For many, mammograms remain one of the best tools to detect breast cancer early. St. Mary’s Hospital recommends that women begin annual screenings at age 40, though those with a family history or other risk factors may need to start earlier. Studies consistently show that early detection can significantly improve survival rates, as cancers caught in the initial stages are far more treatable.

This screening process, though sometimes feared, could make all the difference in finding cancer early enough to avoid more aggressive treatments. Dr. Swink and her team emphasize that staying on top of yearly mammograms is one of the most straightforward ways to look after breast health.

High-Risk Breast Cancer Clinics: A Proactive Approach for Those at Greater Risk

For women identified as high-risk, hospitals like St. Mary’s have specialized programs that focus on preventive care, education, and comprehensive support. Their high-risk breast cancer clinic works to lower these women’s odds of developing cancer by closely monitoring health, offering genetic counseling, and creating personalized care plans. This clinic serves as a lifeline, especially for those who may be genetically predisposed or have a significant family history of breast cancer.

In addition to screenings, these programs also offer psychological support, nutritional counseling, and lifestyle guidance. By addressing both medical and emotional needs, they help women proactively manage their health and stay vigilant in cancer prevention.

The Takeaway: Why Annual Mammograms Matter

While mammograms can sometimes feel like just another routine exam, they play a pivotal role in identifying cancer when it’s easiest to treat. As St. Mary’s Hospital works to raise awareness this October, they hope to drive home the message that early detection saves lives. By encouraging women to make mammograms a yearly priority, they’re supporting a stronger, healthier community prepared to confront breast cancer head-on.