Breast Cancer Awareness Month kicks off today at Health Department

First lady Dema Guinn will be on hand at Nevada's Mammovan in Carson City at 11 a.m. today to mark the October 18th anniversary of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Parked on East Second Street between Roop and Stewart streets, the van will be providing mammograms free to age- and income-eligible women from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"In addition to providing screenings for breast cancer and other health concerns, the Mammovan for Nevada serves as a reminder to all women to do self-exams and get regular mammograms," Dema Guinn said.

Community support and grants from the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and the Dema Guinn Fund are allowing low-income women 40 and over to get a mammogram screening free. Eligible women can also receive free screening services through the Health Divsion's Women's Health Connection Program.

The Mammovan began operating in 2000, made possible through a federal grant secured by Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev., and since its inception, 7,652 mammograms have been performed -- 20 of those tested were diagnosed with breast cancer.

For information about today's screenings, call (877) 581-6266. To get additional information about the Medicaid Treatment Option, contact the Women's Health Connection, 684-5926.

This event is also being sponsored by Nevada Health Centers and the Nevada State Health Division's Women's Health Connection.

IF YOU GO

What: Mammovan for Nevada

When: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. today

Where: on Second Street between Roop and Stewart streets behind the Nevada State Health Division, 505 E. King St.

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