Memphis, TN. - The Memphis and Shelby County Health Department recognizes October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and October 16th as National Mammography Day. 

     Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death in women in the United States. When breast cancer is detected early, the chances of survival are greatest. There are more than 2 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. Shelby County Government alone employs at least 16 breast cancer survivors, many of whom benefitted from early detection of their cancers through mammography. 

     One survivor, Janet Shipman, serves as an Assistant County Attorney working at the Health Department. Most recently, Shipman was diagnosed with breast cancer and is fighting the disease through chemotherapy and radiation. Shipman initially learned of the disease by having a routine mammogram which is one of the earliest detection tools.

Breast cancer may be detected at an early stage if women receive:

• Monthly breast self-exams beginning at the age of 20
• Clinical breast exams at least every three years beginning at the age of 20
• Breast exams annually after the age of 40 as part of a periodic health examination
• Annual screening mammography beginning at the age of 40

     While certain characteristics put some women at greater risk for breast cancer than others, all women are at risk. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the better the chances that treatment will work," said Brenda Kyles, Regional Program Coordinator at the Memphis and Shelby County Health Department.

     "Women between the ages of 40 and 49 with a personal history of cancer, a close family member with breast cancer, or a positive or abnormal breast exam, should ask their physician about having an annual mammogram. Women over 50 years of age are urged to consult with their private care provider about having an annual mammogram. A mammogram is a simple X-ray that can detect abnormalities, which may lead to invasive cancer. Early detection is a women's best protection," Kyles said.

     No woman should avoid mammograms because of the cost involved. The Tennessee Breast and Cervical Screening program offers free mammograms to women who meet income guidelines, do not have insurance, or whose insurance does not pay for mammography. Healthcare providers participating in this program will provide screening and referrals for additional testing for program enrollees as indicated. 

     For more information about breast cancer screening and enrollment into the Tennessee Breast and Cervical Screening program, call the Health Department at 901.545.8720 or one of the following providers from the hours of 8 a.m.-5 p.m.:

• Memphis Health Centers at:
  • 360 E. H. Crump - 901.261.2037
  • 4940 Highway St. - 901.261.7303
• Christ Community Health Centers at:
  • 3362 Third St. -  901.271.6365
  • 5366 Mendenhall Mall -  901.271.6100
  • 3124 N. Thomas -  901.260.8422
  • 2861 Broad St. -  901.260.8460
  • 2569 Douglas Ave. -  901.271.6239
• Church Health Center at:
  • 1210 Peabody Ave. - 901.272.0003