Health Watch: Free Mammograms Available

CAMDEN, N.J. (CBS) -- A first of it's kind program to get Latina women screened for breast cancer in Camden County. Health Reporter Stephanie Stahl is On Your Side.

Latina women are at an increased risk of dying from breast cancer, mainly because they don't get screened. They're often confronted with language and financial barriers. Now a new program funded by Komen for the Cure aims to change that.

Nery Rivera, the mother of three, was lucky. Her breast cancer was discovered with her first mammogram.

"If I didn't have that mammogram, I wouldn't be here today discussing this with you," said Nery.

Now, more low income women like Nery will be able to get mammograms with help from the new Camden County Screening Project, sponsored by the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

"There's a higher incidence of mortality amongst this community, so that's why we have to work even harder to try to help them to learn about breast cancer, learn about screening and that's what we're here to do," said Dr. Kathleen Greatrex, Chief of Radiology for Lourdes Health System. Her health system joined other hospital representatives and screening centers from around Camden County who will be part of the new program.

"It is expected that 400 Latinas will be screened and thousands will be educated on breast health and the importance of annual mammograms, translating to thousands of lives saved for generations of Latinas in Camden County," said Jennifer Leith, the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate Project Manager.

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Nery feels a similar program saved her life.

"I feel extremely lucky because of the funding. Because I was able to get early detection, I'm here today, and can enjoy life with my children," said Nery.

Komen for the Cure has invested more than $200,000 for the new initiative. The money is specifically earmarked for Latina women in Camden County who are uninsured or underinsured.

RELATED LINK:

Camden County Screening Project Information

Free Mammography Services in Pennsylvania http://www.portal.state.pa.us/ and http://www.familyplanning.org/

Susan G. Komen for the Cure Contact Information