October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the Finger Lakes is shining light on the disease. Auburn Obstetrician and Gynecologist Dr. William Bock says the number of breast cancers diagnosis each year continues to grow.
The American Cancer Society recommends that all women have a yearly mammogram starting at age 40.
There's been some news that came out recently about some studies that are promising to use genetics to target cancer treatment for women, called BRCA. Dr. Bock says that although we probably won't see it in the next few years, it holds some promise when it becomes a viable treatment.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are human genes that belong to a class known as tumor suppressors. In normal cells, BRCA1 and BRCA2 help ensure the stability of the cell’s DNA. In mutated cells, these genes have been linked to the development of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.
The Cayuga County Cancer Services Program will offer free mammograms on October 30th at the Diagnostic Imaging Center, 281 Grant Ave. Women who are uninsured or under insured may call the program at 315-253-1455 to schedule a free clinical breast exam and mammogram. The screening is from 7:00am-3:30pm.
For information on the Cayuga County Cancer Services Program, click here.
