Great Plains Health
North Platte, Neb – Great Plains Health has joined the annual "Mammos for the Masses" campaign this October, organized by the Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2), as part of a statewide effort to promote regular breast cancer screenings and early detection. This initiative encourages women across Nebraska to prioritize their health by scheduling mammograms and understanding their personal risk factors.
Dr. Todd E. Hlavaty, who has served as Radiation Oncologist for the Callahan Cancer Center for the last 28 years and serves on the board of directors for the Nebraska Cancer Coalition, emphasized the importance of this initiative:
"Great Plains Health is proud to join the #MammosForTheMasses campaign," Hlavaty said. "Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women, and early detection is crucial. I cannot stress enough how vital it is for women to schedule
regular mammograms and discuss their personal risk factors with their healthcare providers. These screenings can detect cancer at earlier, more treatable stages and ultimately save lives. Don't postpone this important conversation with your doctor. Your health is too important to wait."
Breast cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in the U.S. and is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Nebraska. Regular mammograms are proven to reduce breast cancer mortality by nearly 40%, making early detection a critical factor in improving outcomes. While breast cancer is most often found in women aged 55 and older, it's recommended that women start screenings as early as age 40.
Several factors contribute to an increased risk of breast cancer, such as family history, genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2, dense breast tissue, early onset of
menstruation, and late menopause. Women who have received radiation therapy before the age of 30 are also at a higher risk. For women aged 40 to 74, screenings every two years are strongly recommended to ensure early detection and improve outcomes.
"Regular mammograms and awareness of personal risk factors are essential in the fight against breast cancer," said NC2 executive director, Laura Schabloske. "Women are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers to determine the appropriate age to begin screenings and how frequently to continue them."
As a reminder, Great Plains Health offers an ongoing Breast Cancer Support Group. The group meets every third Thursday of the month from 6 to 7 p.m. in Conference Room A at 601 W. Leota Street, North Platte. This group is open to any women diagnosed with breast cancer seeking encouragement and support. No registration is required. For more information, call 308.568.7544.
To schedule a mammogram or for more information, contact your physician today.
About Great Plains Health
Great Plains Health is a nonprofit, fully accredited, 116-bed acute-care regional medical center in North Platte, Nebraska. With nearly 100 physicians representing over 30 medical specialties, the hospital offers advanced healthcare services, including heart and vascular, cancer, and neurosurgery care. Great Plains Health's mission is to inspire health and healing by putting patients first - always.
About the Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2)
The Nebraska Cancer Coalition (NC2) is a nonprofit organization that serves all ninety three counties in Nebraska. NC2's membership and partners include health systems, providers, associations, cancer survivors and individuals. Together we aspire to achieve our mission of connecting people and resources to strengthen cancer prevention, detection, and quality of life in Nebraska. NC2's vision is to Conquer Cancer Together.