SEATTLE — October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and more than 250,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. Early detection can save lives.
“This is really important for women to know in order to take control of their health and get the appropriate cancer screenings because early detection truly is key,” said Dr. Meaghan O'Malley, fellowship-trained medical oncologist.
Virginia Mason Franciscan Health has teamed up with the Seattle Seahawks to promote early cancer detection through the NFL’s Crucial Catch: Intercept Cancer initiative.
“We’re the only partnership that has on-site cancer screenings at some NFL games,” Dr. O’Malley said.
An on-site CT scanner offers a low radiation CT scan for the detection of suspicious lung nodules in patients who are high risk for lung cancer. The team is also offering a blood test to detect prostate cancer.
When it comes to screening for breast cancer, every woman, regardless of family history, should start mammograms at age 40.
“Early detection allows us to identify breast cancers at an earlier stage, smaller size, with a higher likelihood of a cure,” Dr. O’Malley said.
Depending on personal risk, some women may be candidates for screening with a breast MRI, in addition to their annual screening mammogram.
“When in doubt, always ask your doctor,” Dr. O’Malley said.
As research advances, care advances as well. Virginia Mason Franciscan Health offers multi-disciplinary treatment teams who can take you from diagnosis to recovery.
Learn more about Crucial Catch and get more information about cancer screenings on the Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Cancer Care website.
Sponsored by Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
Segment Producer Suzie Wiley. Watch New Day Northwest at 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.