Baseline Barbie Educates about Breast Cancer Awareness

JEFFERSON, Iowa – Barbie had a big summer by the Bells in Jefferson, and will be coming back to Greene County Medical Center this October to help spread awareness about breast cancer.

“Technology has played a substantial role in early detection of breast cancer,” said Greene County Medical Center Imaging Director, Heather Booth. “Enhancements in recent years now allows us to dial in more closely on the tissue. This coupled with treatment advancements have resulted in a breast cancer survival rate of 90% in the United States.

With this updated mammography now widely available, more breast cancer cases are being found in younger women and new recommendations are for the first to be performed at 40 years of age. “We are very excited to be partnering with Baseline Barbie this year to share the importance of getting that initial screening, Booth said. “One of the factors radiologists look at annually are changes in the breasts. The baseline mammogram not only allows them to evaluate the health of the breasts, but also gives them that basis for comparison on future exams.”

Booth said her Team’s goal is to make getting a mammogram as easy as and as comfortable as possible for patients. “The entire process takes only about 30 minutes and we will continue to offer Walk-In Mammo Mondays for the entire year,” she said. “From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on any Monday, qualified patients can simply walk in and have their mammogram.” Patients must have their previous mammogram on file with the Greene County Medical Center and it must have been at least one year since their last mammogram to participate in the walk-in program. These are screening mammograms only. Anyone with symptoms must schedule a diagnostic mammogram through their primary care provider.

In addition, all patients who have a mammogram in the month of October will receive a $5 off coupon for the Gift Garden in the main lobby.

Greene County Medical Center will be decked out in all things Barbie and pink for the entire month. Everyone is invited to get a closer look at some of the famous doll’s life-sized gear at the Jefferson Matters Chamber Java & Juice on Friday, October 4. This will be held in the medical center main lobby beginning at 9:30 a.m.

The Imaging Team will also be working the concession stand at the Rams’ home game on Friday, October 18. Please stop by and show your support.

For more information, contact the Imaging Department at 515-386-0443.