CBHA holding Breast Cancer activities

MATTAWA - The Columbia Basin Health Association urges all women to take advantage of clinic activities on Tuesday, Oct. 30, that will bring a close to National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

"Breast cancer affects one in eight women," said Dr. Monique Small, CBHA obstetrician/gynecologist. "It can be a highly curable disease if detected and treated early."

The CBHA's breast cancer awareness events will go from 10 a.m.-to 5 p.m. at all CBHA locations, including Othello and Mattawa. The Mattawa (Wahluke Family Clinic) address is 601 Government Way.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer in the United States is the second most common cancer in women and the second leading cause of cancer death in women.

The purpose of the clinic events will be to advise patients about their risk factors for breast cancer and hand out free informational items. No appointment will be necessary.

Dr. Small stresses the importance of monthly breast self-exams for women starting in their 20s.

A clinical breast exam should be performed by a health care provider every three years for women in their 20s and 30s and every year for women 40 and over, Dr. Small said.

- Staff report