October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of early detection of the second-most lethal cancer in women. Boise State recognizes the critical role of accessible mammograms in helping one in eight females who will develop breast cancer in their lifetime receive timely treatment.
Human Resources and Workforce Strategy has partnered with Saint Alphonsus to bring its mobile mammogram bus to campus from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 31. The bus will be parked on Bronco Circle between the Student Union Building and Pioneer Hall. Call (208) 367-8787 to schedule an appointment.
About the screenings
- Women age 35+ may schedule a screening mammogram without a doctor’s order
- An annual screening mammogram is recommended starting at age 40
- You may schedule for the same calendar month as your previous mammogram (most insurance plans do not require you to wait 365+1 days)
- On the day of your appointment, please bring your insurance card and photo ID
- Please verify that Saint Alphonsus is in network for your insurance
- Income-based grants are available for uninsured patients who qualify
- Self-pay discount is offered to those who do not have insurance coverage and do not qualify for a grant (patient will be billed later)
Staying ahead of breast cancer with screenings
Doctors and scientists agree that early detection is the best defense against breast cancer. Successful treatment and survival rates for breast cancer patients are dramatically affected by early detection. If breast cancer is found early, the five-year survival rate is almost 100%.
The Society of Breast Imaging and the American College of Radiology recommend annual screening mammography starting at age 40.
Traditional mammography is 2D digital and is one of the best technologies available today for screening for breast cancer. This life-saving technology now offers an additional option in the fight against cancer called 3D digital breast tomosynthesis or 3D mammography. This technology is offered through the Saint Alphonsus mobile mammography unit.