Cincinnati Reaches Out to Those in Need of a Mammogram

Although Breast Cancer Awareness month is weeks away, many organizations throughout the world seek to establish and maintain consciousness of the disease on a continual basis. I recently found an organization in Cincinnati who's vision is to empower women through opportunities, knowledge, services and hope. It's called the Cris Collinsworth ProScan Fund. Part of its mission is to enhance the lives of all women by promoting breast cancer awareness and education. The Fund offers several programs to women throughout the year such as Mammogram Match and Cruisin' for a Cure. Mammogram Match provides funded mammograms and breast imaging services for low income, uninsured women. This is the only program in the Greater Cincinnati area that provides zero cost screening mammograms to women 30 years of age or older. Uninsured women with a family income at or below 200% of the current federal poverty guidelines are eligible. However, some women with income above the poverty level guidelines may still qualify when other circumstances indicate severe financial hardship. To request an application for Mammogram Match, call the confidential hotline at 1-866-557-PINK (7465). Once approved and a free mammogram is performed, a woman may need further evaluation. The Fund will cover a diagnostic mammogram, breast ultrasound and a breast biopsy. Cruisin' for a Cure is a newer program that transports women to and from their annual mammograms. You may have seen one of the Fund's pink vans cruising through the TriState area. Since breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women, the American Cancer Society recommends an annual mammogram. Early detection can be one of the best defenses against breast cancer. Call 513-241-CURE (2873) to schedule transportation to your next mammogram appointment and bring a friend!