One in eight women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime, making it one of the most common types of cancer among women. In 2023, the American Cancer Society estimates that more than 297,000 cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in the United States, and more than 43,700 will die from the disease.

This month is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Piedmont Macon is offering Saturday mammograms as a way to expand access to the life-saving tests to women who may not be able to have a mammogram during the work week.

“Although October is traditionally Breast Cancer Awareness Month, breast health is important throughout the entire year, and early detection is the key,” said Kimberly Lewis, oncology breast nurse navigator at Piedmont Macon Medical Center. “Women need to be self-aware, know their bodies and report any changes. Women should begin annual screening mammograms at age 40 and even earlier for high-risk women or those indicated by their physician.”

This month’s breast cancer awareness events at Piedmont Macon include:

Saturday mammograms

• At Piedmont Macon Medical, women can schedule Saturday mammograms for:

• Oct. 7 and Oct. 21

• Nov. 4 and Nov. 18

• Dec. 2 and Dec. 16

• At Piedmont Macon North, mammograms can be scheduled for:

• Oct. 14

• Nov. 11

• Dec. 9 

To schedule an appointment at either Piedmont Macon hospital, call 877.357.0161.

Piedmont Tree of Hope

The public is invited to tie a pink ribbon on the Tree of Hope at Piedmont Macon Medical to recognize a loved one who has battled breast cancer. The ribbons may be in memory of someone who lost their fight, or in honor of someone who survived or is currently being treated for breast cancer. Ribbons may be picked up at Piedmont Macon Oncology in Building C, Suite 120 or at the Women’s Center, Building C, Suite 100, from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Piedmont Macon’s Breast Health Services

Piedmont Macon Medical Center offers a full complement of breast screenings and other tests to help detect breast cancer early. Services include 3D mammography, breast MRIs, breast MRI biopsies and ultrasounds, breast surgery, digital mammography, genetic testing, sentinel node procedures, stereotactic breast biopsies and ultrasound-guided biopsies. Oncology-certified nurse navigators are available to discuss and provide education and resources.

For more information about breast health services at the Piedmont hospitals in Macon, call 478.765.4805 or visit www.piedmont.org.