By Kaylin Krashesky
MEDFORD, Ore. - A new American Cancer Society study finds that poorer women are more likely to die of breast cancer. Some at Providence Medford Medical Center say they aren't surprised by these results, saying women in a lower socio-economic class don't have as many resources, leading them to diagnose the cancer in its later, more fatal, stages.
Kate Newgard, a nurse navigator, says fighting cancer is not as much about awareness anymore as it is about people not taking action.
"I think people are very aware I think the awareness factor is out there...I don't think they know about all of the help that is out there," she says.
Help is available. Providence is just one Rogue Valley location that works with women to set up free mammograms. They suggest women older than 40 get a yearly mammogram. Doctors at Providence say most instances of breast cancer are actually found through mammograms, and they suggest you take action and ask about free mammograms. This way, people off all social standings can beat breast cancer for good.
There are multiple different places that offer free mammograms. To find out if you qualify for a free screening at Providence Medford Medical Center, call 541-732-6100.
