Southcoast Health today announced its calendar of activities for October to recognize National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Southcoast Health is offering free mammograms for uninsured individuals during the month of October. Screenings are offered at multiple Southcoast Breast Imaging Centers across the region.

Statistics show that one in eight women over the age of 40 will develop breast cancer. Since patients are less likely to experience symptoms during the early stages of breast cancer, when tumors are small and most treatable, early detection and regular screenings are a necessity to reduce advanced stage diagnosis and often improve treatment outcome. The American Cancer Society (ACS) notes that it is very important for women to follow the recommended screening guidelines for detecting breast cancer at an early stage, before symptoms develop. The ACS recommends that women receive a regular, annual mammogram beginning at age 40.

Data also shows that individuals without health insurance are less likely to have regular breast cancer screenings, significantly reducing their chances of early detection. That is why Southcoast Health is offering this important screening, at no cost, to any uninsured individual during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Appointments are required. To schedule a free mammogram during the month of October, call central scheduling at 800-276-0103. Massachusetts residents will also have the opportunity to speak with Patient Financial Services for guidance on how to apply for health insurance. Rhode Island residents without insurance are welcome to take advantage of the free screenings, but will not qualify for financial assistance.

New Southcoast Breast Health Center: Access to comprehensive breast health services will be increased with the grand opening of the Southcoast Breast Health Center in Fall River. Patients whose mammography results show abnormalities can take advantage of its comprehensive, multidisciplinary program designed to help guide patients through their journey. The multidisciplinary team includes surgeons, radiologists, oncologists, pathologists and breast care navigators. They meet regularly to review each case and recommend the appropriate course of treatment. With advanced technology and experience, the center offers a streamlined approach to diagnosis, providing timely and accurate services. Southcoast Health also has a breast health center in Dartmouth. For more information, visit southcoast.org/breast.

Southcoast Health is proud to once again sponsor the Gloria Gemma Resource Foundation’s annual event, Flames of Hope – A Celebration of Life. This year Southcoast Health will have five patient, survivor and caregiver representatives from the Southcoast Health Cancer Center walking and carrying torches in the Illuminations of Life Ceremony and torch procession on the evening of Saturday, September 29 in Providence.

Southcoast Health presents Women & Wellness (and wine!), taking place on October 18, from 4 to 8 p.m., at Rachel’s Lakeside, 950 State Rd, Dartmouth. Attendees can enjoy a glass of wine, valuable information on health and wellness, cooking demos and more. The event is free and the public is invited to attend. For more information, visit southcoast.org/event/women-wellness-and-wine/.

Also in October, Cask & Pig Kitchen & Alehouse, in Dartmouth, will hold events to raise funds to support the Nicole Podkowa Patient Caregiver Fund at the Southcoast Centers for Cancer Care during this year’s annual “Oktoberfesta”. For more information, visit caskandpig.com.

Southcoast Health is a primary provider of breast health services in the region. Southcoast Breast Imaging Centers are designated as Centers of Excellence by the American College of Radiology, is certified by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers by the American College of Surgeons, and offer 100 percent digital mammography services at all of their sites throughout Southeastern Massachusetts. For more information, visit southcoast.org/mammo.