AHOSKIE - Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital will sponsor a free breast cancer screening on Saturday, October 18th from 8 AM – 12 Noon in the outpatient clinical services department at the hospital.

“We hope women will take this opportunity to have a free clinical breast exam because early detection is the key to saving lives,” states Lisa Newsome, M.Ed., director of community relations. “We are making great strides in Hertford County toward reducing the incidence and death rates due to breast cancer. It’s important for women, especially over the age of 40, to be screened for breast cancer on a regular basis.”

There are three important steps to early detection: monthly breast exam, clinical breast exam by a clinical provider, and annual mammogram for women starting at age 40; (at earlier age if there is a history of breast cancer in the family).

With funding from the Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Foundation, the hospital provides regular opportunities for women to be screened for breast cancer for free. Women receive a clinical breast exam by a clinician, physician or nurse practitioner. Funds are available for eligible women to receive a free screening mammogram that same day.

Follow up is provided with family doctors; the health department’s Breast and Cervical Control Program will be on hand to determine eligibility for this program also.

Pink Power Gifts are given to each participant and refreshments will be offered. To pre-register for a screening, call 1-800-472-8500. Walk-in’s will be accepted, but pre-registration is recommended.

For questions about early detection of breast cancer or breast screening, call Lisa Newsome, director of community relations, at 209-3151. Call 1-800-472-8500 to register for a free breast cancer screening.