ILLINOIS (WAND) – Free mammogram screenings are available for central Illinois woman in several counties this October.
Uninsured or under-insured women interested in getting a free mammogram can attend Mammogram Mondays, which are held on Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. 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.
