Story by Da’Sha Tuck, Staff writer
One out of every eight women will develop breast cancer within their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). In 2015, ACS predicts 232,000 new cases of breast cancer will be discovered in women.
At 11:30 a.m. Oct. 14, the Murray-Calloway County Hospital will host a luncheon in the CFSB Center in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“We are providing awareness for women of all ages,” said Melony Morgan, director of planning and marketing for Murray-Calloway County Hospital.
Morgan said this event is sponsored by the hospital and is free to everyone. The hospital is promoting a new campaign called “Because She Matters,” a campaign to encourage people to donate toward the purchase of the latest digital imaging technology.
Digital tomosynthesis allows for a three-dimensional image of the breast tissue using X-rays. A standard mammogram uses two X-rays and requires a more extensive process.
Breastcancer.org states, “mammograms are very good, but they have some significant limitations.”
According to breastcancer.org, mammogram limitations include the compression of the breast during a mammogram, which is uncomfortable and can cause overlapping of the breast tissue.
Digital tomosynthesis is a new technology that eliminates these limitations. This technology uses an X-ray that takes multiple pictures at several different angles, providing a more accurate image of the breast tissue.
According to breastcancer.org, “The X-ray tube moves in an arc around the breast while 11 images are taken, during a seven second examination.”
The tomosynthesis technology has many advantages including earlier detection and accuracy in determining size and shape of abscess. It can detect multiple tumors and has a lower likelihood of false negatives.
During the luncheon, Robin Floyd of diagnostic radiology will speak on the importance of breast cancer awareness. Floyd will provide information on what this new technology will mean to the Department of Oncology.
Joan Travis, a breast cancer survivor from Marshall County, will speak at the luncheon and tell everyone about her life experience.
Those who wish to donate to the cause can do so at the event, and donations can also be made by texting “Matters” to 91999.
Reservations for the luncheon can be made by calling (270) 762-1381.
“This is a great opportunity for the community to make a difference locally. We need everyone’s support to make this a reality and what better time to kick off the efforts than October – National Breast Cancer Awareness Month,” said Keith Travis, vice president of development at Murray-Calloway County Hospital.