SGMC Health encourages mammograms and awareness with Pamper and Prevent

Published 2:13 pm Friday, October 25, 2024

VALDOSTA — In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, SGMC Health urges all eligible women to schedule their annual mammogram and is raising awareness about breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment through its Pamper and Prevent campaign.

Now in its fourth year, Pamper and Prevent connects the community through local breast cancer survivor stories and offers women a chance to win a special prize package. The campaign also makes it easy to schedule mammograms online.

Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women in the U.S., with 1 in 8 women diagnosed in their lifetime, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Nikki Yarbrough, DO, an SGMC Health OBGYN and breast cancer survivor, shares why she encourages women to prioritize their yearly mammogram. “This month it’s time to remember we have to stop and put ourselves and our health first so that we can be here for those that we love,” she said.

According to Dr. Yarbrough, this is the lesson she learned all too well in April of 2009 when she discovered a mass while performing a self-breast exam. At only 37 years old, with a new baby at home and a 3-year-old in tow, it was more important than ever that she take time to care for herself so she could be around to care for her family well into the future.

“I preach daily the importance of early detection and early intervention. A minute once a month and an hour once a year is a small price to pay for a lifetime with family and friends,” said Dr. Yarbrough. “Find the time, and take the time. You are worth it!”

SGMC Health provides state-of-the-art screening with the Hologic Genius 3D mammogram, which significantly improves cancer detection by 20-65% compared to traditional 2D mammograms and reduces callbacks by 40%, the hospital said. This technology is particularly beneficial for women with dense breast tissue. The 3D mammogram is offered at the SGMC Imaging Center, SGMC Health Berrien, and SGMC Women’s Health Patterson.

SGMC Health’s comprehensive breast cancer program includes imaging, surgery, and cutting-edge treatments. The Pearlman Cancer Center, accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer and the American College of Radiology, offers advanced treatment options like radiation therapy, chemotherapy, biotherapy, surgical oncology, and clinical trials, including precision medicine trials and genetic counseling for cancer-causing genes.

For more information, visit sgmc.org/giveaway.