Students aid fight for breast cancer awareness at Advanced Imaging

10-15-2008

Jacksonville High School's Focus group submitted six posters, shown above left hanging on the wall to the contest. Photo special to the News Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, affecting 1 in 8 during their lifetimes. It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women, immediately behind lung cancer. Twice as many Alabama women die each year from this disease as passengers who perished with the sinking of the Titanic or were killed on 9/11. US women are dying every year from this disease in higher numbers than the US casualties during World War II. But there are ways to limit the effects of this “surprise attack”- self-examination, physician examination, and mammography (particularly digital mammography, which is more accurate) are cornerstones of early detection. Just as it is easier to put out a match than a forest fire, early detection dramatically improves treatment options and outcomes. But even the best plans and weapons for the fight are worthless if not utilized, and this starts with public awareness. In cooperation with the Focus program of the Alabama Department of Public Health, Advanced Imaging in Gadsden has sponsored a poster contest among local high schools to promote breast cancer awareness. Over 120 submissions are currently hanging on the walls at Advanced Imaging, promoting various perspectives on aspects of this disease from “early detection is the best protection” to “I love my fake ones because my real ones tried to kill me”. Since October is breast cancer awareness month (even the White House was recently illuminated in pink for this recognition – thank you Laura Bush), it is a particularly appropriate time for women to review their own knowledge and practices for breast cancer protection, and to obtain a mammogram if they have not had one in the past year. Advanced Imaging has other promotions during this month, including an open house on Oct. 15, which will feature several local surgeons who have volunteered their time to do physician breast exams and free of charge as well as to answer questions about breast cancer. Come and see the efforts of the local students, learn about this public health issue, and improve your own potential risk (and there will be some free food).

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