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Upstate University Hospital's mobile mammography van is hitting the road in March, bringing potentially life-saving breast cancer screenings to communities across Central New York.
The "Mammo Van" will make seven scheduled stops throughout Onondaga and Oswego counties, making breast cancer detection more accessible for women in the region. The mobile unit will visit Tops Friendly Market in Hannibal on March 4, the Pulaski Welcome Center on March 5, and the Jordan Elbridge Community Center on March 6.
Additional stops include Kinney Drugs locations in Liverpool (March 10) and Fulton (March 25), Pitcher Hill Apartments in North Syracuse (March 24), and the Marcellus Public Library (March 26).
"Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women, affecting one in 8 women. It is also one of the most treatable cancers when detected early," according to Upstate University Hospital. "Mammograms—x-rays of the breasts—are the most effective screening procedure for the early signs of breast cancer."
The state-of-the-art mobile unit features a 3D digital mammogram system, private exam room, dressing rooms, and a waiting area. In the past six years, the van has traveled over 58,000 miles to bring mammograms to women throughout Central New York.
To be eligible for screening, women should be 40 years or older, have not had a mammogram in the past 12 months, and not be experiencing breast problems. Appointments are recommended and can be scheduled by calling (315) 464-2588 or requesting an appointment online at www.upstate.edu/noexcuses.