Walk for Breast Cancer Awareness throughout October!

posted on Friday, October 1, 2021 in General

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. About one in eight women will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime. (Just a heads up, there are risks to men too, though much lower; approximately one in 833 men will develop breast cancer in his lifetime). It’s important to focus and encourage early detection as breast cancer is often successfully treated when caught early, and to educate people about diagnostic and treatment options. You can help by joining in the 2021 Breast Cancer Walks for Awareness throughout the month of October.

“Typically we do a one-day event for our Breast Cancer Awareness Walk, which is so fun and impactful, yet we’ve sometimes ran into inclement weather on that day. Also, we’re also conscientious that we typically attract a crowd of around 200 participants, which is terrific, yet during with higher COVID-19 positive numbers lately, it didn’t feel responsible to host a health-focused event with that many bodies side-by-side,” explained Jeannette Hasley, Women’s Health Director at Spencer Hospital. “So, we’re giving everyone an opportunity to walk one day or more days, or even every, day of October in their person Pink Walk for Awareness.”

Participation is easy. Dress in pink apparel and take a brisk, healthy walk in your community. Take a photo of yourself or you and your group while walking, then send to Spencer Hospital’s marketing department at marketing@spencerhospital.org or to the hospital’s Facebook Messenger page. Your photo will be posted during the month to help promote breast cancer awareness, and you’ll also be entered into a drawing for a fun Pink Gift Package.

 On Wednesday, Oct. 6, is Iowa’s Healthiest State Walk so people could choose to participate in the Healthiest State Walk and wear pink for breast cancer awareness. For more information on the Healthiest State Walk, check out the website at www.iowahealthieststate.com.

“We especially wish to remind women to schedule their screening mammogram,” Hasley said. “Typically, women age 40 and older qualify for an annual screening mammogram; however, coverage may vary depending on your insurance. Also, for those who are uninsured or under-covered through insurance, check with Clay County Public Health about the Care for Yourself program, which offers assistance for women’s health screenings including breast and cervical cancer screenings.”

Hasley added that Spencer Hospital’s Women’s Health Center offers educational materials regarding a myriad of women’s health topics, including breast cancer. The Women’s Health Center is accredited by the American College of Radiology as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence and features 3D mammography. All of Spencer Hospital’s mammographers are registered through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. 

If a breast health concern is detected, the hospital has certified breast health navigators to assist patients through their treatment journey.