Preventive screenings are very important to maintaining women’s breast health. Finding breast cancer as early as possible allows for more treatment options and greatly improves the likelihood that treatment will be successful, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). In fact, early detection saves thousands of lives each year.

In an effort to increase early detection, a clinical breast exam is recommended as part of a regular health exam by a doctor for women beginning at age 35. Once women reach age 40 and older a yearly mammogram is recommended and should continue for as long as they are in good health.

Despite this information, there are many women in the community who simply cannot afford these important screenings.

While loss of insurance during these difficult economic times can make affording mammograms difficult, it is not impossible. Conway Regional Health System participates in two programs that can help women who meet age and income criteria for mammogram assistance.

‘Touching Lives’

“Touching Lives: Breast Health for Women” is a program sponsored by the Conway Regional Health Foundation and funded by a grant from the Arkansas Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

The program helps fund mammograms for uninsured and underinsured women in Faulkner, Conway, Perry, Van Buren and Cleburne counties. It provides breast health education, free screening mammograms and diagnostic procedures for women who are eligible. Spanish interpretation services are available.

To be considered for a free mammogram, call 501.450.2244 to schedule a mammogram and mention the Komen grant. Free mammograms will be given to those who qualify as long as funds are available. More information is available at www.conwayregional.org.
This is the second year that the Conway Regional program has been funded through the Komen Arkansas affiliate.

BreastCare program

Women can also turn to the Arkansas BreastCare program for financial assistance. A program of the Arkansas Department of Health, it provides free screening, diagnosis and treatment services for Arkansas women. Those who qualify can receive free mammograms, clinical breast exams, pelvic exams, pap tests and followup tests and treatment.

For additional information about the BreastCare program go to www.arbreastcare.com or call 1.877.670.2273.

Conway Regional Health System provides digital mammography and breast MRI services. In 2008, the Conway Regional women’s imaging services conducted 11,384 screening and diagnostic mammograms.