Sanders Hosts Successful Free Mammogram Event in Recognition of Women's History Month

James Sanders Jr.

March 10, 2018

In recognition of Women's History Month, State Senator James Sanders Jr. (D-Rochdale Village, Far Rockaway) partnered with ScanVan to bring free mobile mammography services to the district. The van was stationed outside of South Island Medical Associates in Far Rockaway on March 3, 2018. 

"It is especially appropriate that we are here today because it is Women’s History Month and we want to encourage women to put their health first," Sanders said. "Mammograms save lives."

About 1 in 8 U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime, according to breastcancer.org In the United States more women die from breast cancer than any other cancer except lung cancer. Annual mammograms can detect cancer early — when it is most treatable. Mammograms can detect changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them. 
 
Several women attended Sanders' mobile mammography event, which was open to women over 40 years of age that had not had a mammogram in the last year.  It was free for the uninsured and for those with insurance, all plans were accepted with the co-pay or deductible being waived. Free home colorectal screening kits were also distributed to those who requested them. Those who test positive qualifiy for a free colonoscopy. 

Attendees also received complimentary goody bags filled with small gifts.

Senator Sanders would like to thank our community partners South Island Medical Associates, Flowers of Hope, Child Center of NY Child Center of NY, Catholic Charities, NYC Dept. of Youth & Community Development, St. John's Episcopal Hospital and Heal the World Pharmacy for their support.