Breast cancer is one of the leading killers of American women, affecting one in eight women.  That’s why St. Mary’s Hospital’s Health Connections, in concert with hematologist/oncologist Dr. Amir M. Khan, is working to increase education and prevention during breast cancer awareness month. 

Dr. Khan will speak about breast health, proper breast exams, genetics and common causes of breast cancer on Sunday, Oct. 11 from 2 to 4 p.m. during a seminar in the hospital’s Atrium.  The event is open to all women in the community.  The event will also feature tours of the hospital’s mammography suite, as well as displays and educational materials on breast health.  Light refreshments will be provided.  For more information and to RSVP, call (301) 475-6019.  

Breast cancer is the second most common cause of cancer in women and the leading cause of cancer death in women ages 40-59.  As of 2008, breast cancer accounted for just over 33 percent of all cancer diagnoses at St. Mary’s Hospital.  There is, however, some hope – the American Cancer Society has found the breast cancer rate is dropping more than 2 percent a year, largely due to early detection and available treatments. 

The hospital offers the following breast cancer treatment and prevention methods: digital mammography, breast MRI, digital computer-aided detection, stereotactic breast biopsies, sentinel lymph node biopsies and reconstructive plastic surgery.  To schedule your yearly mammogram, please call the hospital’s Imaging Department at (301) 475-6106.