October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The Go Pink Group
Breast cancer does not discriminate. It can affect women and men regardless of age or race. In 2011, it was estimated that over 290,000 new cases of breast cancer were discovered. Over 2000 of these cases were in men. Alarmingly, over 39,500 women and 450 men will die from this dreaded disease this year.
During National Breast Cancer Awareness (BCA) Month in October, Pointe Coupee General Hospital staff has planned several activities to commemorate this special month. Our goal is to provide our community and patients with the appropriate screening, education, and resources needed to address the ongoing problem of breast cancer. In addition, we strive to ensure that our community members receive the care needed, regardless of personal circumstances.
PCGH provides screening and diagnostic digital mammograms. A certified registered radiological technologist performs these exams utilizing equipment accredited by the American College of Radiology and Food and Drug Administration. All mammograms are interpreted by the Baton Rouge Radiology Group. This radiology group consists of 26 board certified physicians that interpret over 65,000 mammograms a year. Patients that have their diagnostic mammograms performed at PCGH will get all additional imaging required, including ultrasound, on the same day. Following the exam, these patients will also have the opportunity to discuss the outcome of the testing, as well as their options, with the radiologist.
Age-Adjusted SEER Incidence Rates By Age All Sites, All Races, Both Sexes 1988-2012 (SEER 9)
In the past, we have shown our support of BCA with many fundraisers organized by PCGH employees. The money raised by the employees has always remained in our parish to help the many people in our community who are in need. PCGH also displays an 8' Pink Ribbon in the front of the hospital every year during the month of October. This ribbon was designed and constructed by PCGH Radiology Department employees and is a reminder to our community that “PCGH CARES”! Patients who have their mammograms performed during the month of October at PCGH are entitled to a special treat and will be entered into a drawing for a larger prize to be given away at the end of the month.
The statistics related to breast cancer are astonishing and PCGH is willing to do everything possible to decrease these numbers. Even though we know there is no sure way to prevent cancer we feel “Early Detection is the Best Protection”. Please contact the PCGH Mammography Department at (225) 638-5703 if you have any questions about our available resources or if you would like to schedule your mammogram. We promise to provide you with a pleasant and professional experience as we partner together to fight breast cancer.
