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Mammogram-mobile stops at Shaw

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jonathan Bass
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The 20th Medical Group hosted a mammogram-mobile giving free screenings to Team Shaw women here, Dec. 3.

The mobile exam room that came to base allowed women a chance to be screened and take preventive measures against breast cancer.

"Breast cancer is the number one diagnosed cancer for women in the United States," said Maj. Danielle Cermak, 20th MDG chief of medical staff. "We're trying to make it easier for women to take control of their health."

This is the first time a mammogram-mobile has stopped at Shaw, and it won't be the last.

Monthly visits to the base are scheduled for TRICARE beneficiaries to use the mammogram-mobile.

"If there's anything a woman can do for herself, it's get a screening," said Cermak. "The earlier we catch (cancer) the better."

A mammogram takes less than 15 minutes, making it easy for women to accomplish.

Maj. Karyn Revelle, 20th Medical Operations Squadron health flight commander expressed her excitement at having the mobile here for women's convenience saying, "Instead of having to drive to Tuomey Regional Medical Center, I can get tested in less than 15 minutes."

Female beneficiaries should contact their primary care managers to see if a mammogram is recommended for them. Women who have experienced breast cancer in the past five years or who are pregnant or breast feeding cannot receive an exam. If symptoms are found in the exam, beneficiaries should contact their PCM for further guidance.

To find out the next date the mammogram-mobile is scheduled to be call (803) 895-2273.