October 09, 2006
Monday

Alaska Governor Frank H. Murkowski has proclaimed October 2006 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month to raise awareness of breast cancer incidence in Alaska women and promote early detection strategies.

An average of 141 out of every 100,000 Alaska women will be diagnosed with breast cancer annually; which is greater than the national average, of 129 women out of every 100,000. Although health officials are not sure exactly why women in Alaska have a higher incidence of breast cancer, they do know that the most effective way to survive breast cancer in women is through early detection.

"Every two minutes, a woman in the United States is diagnosed with breast cancer," said Public Health director Dr. Richard Mandsager, "Regular mammogram screening is the best way to ensure early detection, which is an essential tool for survival."

The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services recommends that beginning at age 40, women receive a thorough annual breast examination and mammogram from their health care provider. In addition, women ages 20 to 39 should receive a breast examination every two to three years. Because all lumps are not detectable by breast examinations, the department urges Alaskan women to follow mammogram screening guidelines.

Source of News:

Alaska Department of Health & Social Services
www.hss.state.ak.us

 

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