(Photo By Flickr User The MisAdventures of Maja)

 

Free mammogram screenings are available for South Central Illinois women in several counties this October.

Uninsured or under-insured women interested in getting a free mammogram can attend Mammogram Mondays, which started earlier this week,  will be held on the next four Mondays: October  8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th. Appointments are required and walk-ins will not be accepted.

“We are very glad to expand the program to Christian and Montgomery counties this year. Early detection of breast cancer is the key to beating the disease,” said Diana Weyhenmeyer, chair of the Regional Cancer Partnership of Illinois. “Screening and education are critically important factors for women of all ages and the foundation to continued health.”

The list of locations taking part in the program includes:

Memorial Medical Center/Baylis Breast Center

Screening times start at 4 p.m.

747 N. Rutledge St., Springfield

217-788-4042

St. John’s Women’s Center

8-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m.

1100 Lincolnshire Blvd., Springfield

217-757-6400, ext. 3

Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital

Appointments vary

200 Stahlhut Dr., Lincoln

217-605-5108

Taylorville Memorial Hospital

Appointments vary

201 E. Pleasant St., Taylorville

217-824-1865

Hillsboro Area Hospital

Appointments vary

1200 E. Tremont St., Hillsboro

217-532- 4196

Free screenings are made possible through a $20,651 grant from the Memorial Affiliate of Susan G. Komen. Organizers say the program has helped close to 400 women in the last four years.

The National Cancer Institute says women at or over the age of 40 should get mammogram screenings every one or two years.

Women can learn more about breast health and how to perform a self-exam through education materials provided at each screening location.

(Information Courtesy Of WAND-TV)