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Would you be surprised to hear only 57% of the women 40 years of age or older in our community got their mammogram last year? Yet the earlier we detect breast cancer, the better our chances are of being able to cure it. In fact, the five year survivor rate for an early stage breast cancer is 98%. So why aren't women in our community getting their mammograms? The reasons are many, but 57% is not acceptable.
These surprising statistics have prompted the Community Cancer Center to lead an area-wide initiative called Pink Partners to increase the number of mammograms. It is our hope and vision that the entire community - all women, medical providers, community businesses, local organizations and church groups - will get behind this comprehensive program of support, advocacy, and education. Together we can increase the number of mammograms so breast cancer is detected early and survival rates improve. We need your help to make this happen. Please continue reading and learn more on how you can become a Pink Partner and make a difference in our community.
- Select the individual(s), such as a friend, neighbor, or family member, you want to become your Pink Partner.
- Commit with your partners to completing your annual mammograms in the coming year.
- Encourage others to become Pink Partners.
- Fill out a Pink Partner postcard at the medical facility where you complete your mammogram and deposit in the specially marked Pink Partners box. You may also mail the postcard to the Community Cancer Center. These cards will be placed in a monthly drawing for a special gift.
- A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast.
- A screening mammogram consists of two pictures of each breast.
- An x-ray technologist takes the mammogram and is trained to keep you comfortable and answer any questions you may have.
- The breast is compressed during the procedure, so you feel some pressure for a brief period of time.
- A mammogram is read by a specially trained doctor called a radiologist. The results are sent to you and your physician.
There are four locations in our community to complete a mammogram:
- The Women's Center at BroMenn Regional Medical Center
(A doctor's order may not be needed at this facility.)
1304 Franklin Avenue,
Normal, IL (309) 268-5705
- OSF St. Joseph Medical Center
2200 East Washington Street,
Bloomington, IL
(309) 661-5160
- Gale Keeran Center for Women
2200 Fort Jesse Road,
Normal, IL
(309) 452-9001
- OSF SJMC College Avenue Imaging Services
1701 East College Avenue,
Bloomington, IL
(309) 661-5160
To schedule a mammogram, contact your doctor for an order. If you do not have a doctor, contact the Community Cancer Center (309) 451-8500 for assistance with scheduling your mammogram appointment.
Financial assistance is available for women who have no insurance coverage or cannot meet their deductible. For financial assistance and help with other services that may be needed for you to complete your mammogram, please contact the Community Cancer Center at (309) 451-8500.
- To promote the health of all women in our community by raising the percentage for completed annual mammograms.
- To encourage others and to motivate yourself to complete your annual screening mammograms.
- To save lives, because early detection is the best protection.
For more information about the Pink Partners Program, please call (309) 451-8500.
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