For the eighth year, the Regional Medical Center's Breast Health Center has been awarded a grant from the Lowcountry affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation to assist women of Orangeburg, Calhoun and Bamberg counties in receiving a free screening/diagnostic mammogram.

RMC received a $69,899 grant to help the underserved women of our area.

Women 30 to 40 years of age who have never had a screening mammogram; live in Orangeburg, Calhoun and Bamberg counties; and have no insurance, as well as women who are 40 to 46 years of age who have not had a screening mammogram in the past year; reside in Orangeburg, Calhoun and Bamberg counties; and have no insurance are encouraged to contact the RMC Breast Health Center.

The grant will also serve women who do not qualify for Best Chance Network services, said RMC lead mammographer Rebecca Hejl.

"Lunch and Learn" sessions are also being offered to help educate men and women regarding breast health care.

"Actual images are shown at these sessions so individuals can see just how small some breast cancers are and will be aware that not all breast cancers can be detected by self examination alone," Hejl said. "We give instruction on self-breast exams and are especially interested in reaching out to the younger women of this area to educate on breast health care.

"Early detection is the best weapon in the fight against breast cancer."

For more information about the grant criteria or any of RMC's Breast Health Center services, call Hejl at 803-395-2841.

Source: www.TheTandD.com posted on May 3, 2011