PETOSKEY, MI -- A new study shows mammograms have put a dent in the number of women who die from breast cancer.
A study done by the National Cancer Institute shows an increased detection of early stage breast cancer and a decrease in advanced-stage thanks to mammograms.
The reason this is important is because local health experts say early stage breast cancer can be treated at a higher success level.
"There's some confusion out there if women really need a mammogram, but the American Cancer Society is really firm in their recommendation that every woman 40 and over needs a mammogram on an annual basis," said Pat Fralick, the Director of Family and Community Health Services with the Health Department of Northwest Michigan.
And here's more good news! If you're between the ages of 50 and 64 and can't afford the test, you can have it done for free. If cancer is detected, the department can help set you up on Medicaid.
If you'd like more information on the free testing, contact the Health Department of Northwest Michigan at (800) 432-4121.
Harbor Springs - (231)347-6014
Charlevoix - (231) 547-6523
