Great Plains Health Partners with #MammosForTheMasses to Promote Breast Cancer Screening and Prevention

Great Plains Health has joined the annual  "Mammos for the Masses" campaign this October, organized by the Nebraska Cancer  Coalition (NC2), as part of a statewide effort to promote regular breast cancer  screenings and early detection. This initiative encourages women across Nebraska to  prioritize their health by scheduling mammograms and understanding their personal risk  factors. 

Dr. Todd E. Hlavaty, who has served as Radiation Oncologist for the Callahan Cancer  Center for the last 28 years and serves on the board of directors for the Nebraska  Cancer Coalition, emphasized the importance of this initiative: 

"Great Plains Health is proud to join the #MammosForTheMasses campaign," Hlavaty  said. "Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women, and  early detection is crucial. I cannot stress enough how vital it is for women to schedule  

regular mammograms and discuss their personal risk factors with their healthcare  providers. These screenings can detect cancer at earlier, more treatable stages and  ultimately save lives. Don't postpone this important conversation with your doctor. Your  health is too important to wait." 

Breast cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in the  U.S. and is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Nebraska. Regular  mammograms are proven to reduce breast cancer mortality by nearly 40%, making  early detection a critical factor in improving outcomes. While breast cancer is most often  found in women aged 55 and older, it's recommended that women start screenings as  early as age 40. 

Several factors contribute to an increased risk of breast cancer, such as family history,  genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2, dense breast tissue, early onset of 

menstruation, and late menopause. Women who have received radiation therapy before  the age of 30 are also at a higher risk. For women aged 40 to 74, screenings every two  years are strongly recommended to ensure early detection and improve outcomes. 

"Regular mammograms and awareness of personal risk factors are essential in the fight  against breast cancer," said NC2 executive director, Laura Schabloske. "Women are  encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers to determine the appropriate age  to begin screenings and how frequently to continue them." 

As a reminder, Great Plains Health offers an ongoing Breast Cancer Support Group.  The group meets every third Thursday of the month from 6 to 7 p.m. in Conference  Room A at 601 W. Leota Street, North Platte. This group is open to any women  diagnosed with breast cancer seeking encouragement and support. No registration is  required. For more information, call 308.568.7544. 

To schedule a mammogram or for more information, contact your physician today.