OCALA, FL (352today.com) – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and what better way to spread awareness and stay on top of your health than by getting screened?
Now you can do so for free in Marion County. The Florida Department of Health in Marion County (DOH-Marion) has partnered with the Marion County Board of County Commissioners to offer free breast cancer screenings.
This Thursday, Oct. 19, mammogram services will be offered starting at 10 a.m. at the McPherson Governmental Complex in Ocala. The address is 601 SE 25th Ave. Screenings are free to all women regardless of insurance status.
READ: North-central Florida law enforcement goes pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
“Getting a mammogram is the single most effective method of early detection, since it can identify cancer several years before physical symptoms develop,” says DOH-Marion.
DOH-Marion’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (BCCEDP) staff will also be present to see who meets the eligibility requirements to enroll in their program. The early detection program allows women to get breast and cervical screenings for free or at a low cost.
If you aren’t able to make it and want to know if you are eligible, there are many BCCDEP locations throughout the state. You can contact your county health department. Find yours by clicking here.
The Florida Department of Health says common symptoms that may be a sign of breast cancer are:
- Lump/thickening in or near the breast or underarm area
- Change in the size of shape of the breast
- Nipple discharge with the exception of milk
- Nipple turning inward
- A change in color or texture of the skin near the breast or underarm area
Learn more about breast cancer, symptoms and detection methods.