Medical Group promotes awareness of National Breast Cancer Month

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Reel
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 325th Medical Group is doing its part to educate the base populous on National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Women's Health Month, both recognized in October.

According to the National Cancer Society, in 2011, more than 230,000 women in the United States were diagnosed with invasive breast cancer and of those women, 40,000 cases were fatal.

However, breast cancer death rates are declining. Experts believe finding cancers earlier through screenings, and improved treatments are major contributors to long-term survival.

"Women that are 40 years and older should have an annual clinical breast exam," said Maj. Jennifer Bratz, 325th MDG women's health nurse practitioner. "Women under 40 years of age, who have a history of cancer in their family, should also consider annual checkups."

"At Tyndall, nearly 2,000 women are eligible for mammograms," said Capt. Jeremy Hicks, 325th MDG health care integrator. "Of the enrolled patrons, there are almost 550 women that are due or overdue for a mammogram."

The American Cancer Society says the best protection is early detection.

"It is much better to be proactive than reactive, especially when it comes to cancer," Captain Hicks said. "Breast cancer is easily manageable if found in the early stages. The best way to catch the cancer early is to know your family history, perform monthly self-breast exams, and communicate with your medical provider."

October is also recognized as Women's Health Month and the 325th MDG offers a variety of services to promote the health of our female population, including women's annual check-ups and Human Papilloma Virus vaccinations. Males ages nine to 26 should also consider having the HPV vaccination to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Information about breast cancer awareness and HPV are available at the clinic and during health fairs.
The Health and Wellness Center and Base Fitness Center will be sponsoring the 2nd Annual ZumBRAthon Oct. 17 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the base track to help raise awareness.

The 325th MDG and HAWC staff will be on hand to distribute breast cancer prevention and awareness information. There will also be a mammogram sign-up sheet for 325th MDG beneficiaries that meet the criteria for testing.

Appointments for mammograms can also be made at the radiology department by calling (850) 283-7541. Anyone with questions about breast cancer or other cancers should contact their primary care manager via the appointment line at (850) 283-2778.