Breast Cancer Awareness Month
As Sublette County gears up for the opening of its new hospital, local residents will soon have the convenience of getting their mammograms closer to home. Mammograms remain the most effective way to detect breast cancer early, when treatment is more likely to be successful. The American Cancer Society recommends women start getting annual mammograms at age 45, continuing through age 75, or earlier if they are at higher risk for breast cancer.
How to Lower Your Risk of Breast Cancer
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, several lifestyle changes can help lower your risk. Many factors, such as age, are beyond our control, but adopting healthy habits can make a difference.
Here are steps you can take to reduce your risk (Mayo Clinic):
Limit alcohol consumption: The more alcohol you drink, the higher your breast cancer risk. It’s best to avoid alcohol, but if you do drink, aim for moderation—no more than one drink per day.
Stay at a healthy weight: Maintaining a healthy weight is key in preventing breast cancer. Talk to your healthcare provider for guidance on healthy eating and portion control.
Get active: Physical activity helps you control your weight and reduce breast cancer risk. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.
Breastfeed if possible: Breastfeeding for longer periods may offer protection against breast cancer.
Limit post-menopausal hormone therapy: If you're considering hormone therapy, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider, and use the lowest dose for the shortest time.
Avoid smoking: Smoking may increase the risk of breast cancer. Quitting smoking is always beneficial for your overall health.
Wyoming has one of the lowest mammogram rates in the country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 65% of Wyoming women aged 50-74 received a mammogram in the past two years. Although we’ve improved slightly, we still lag behind the national average. Sublette County’s new mammography equipment, set to be installed with the new hospital in 2025, will help make screenings more accessible for local women and push these numbers in the right direction.
Need to schedule a mammogram? You can schedule your own—no referral required! Below are phone numbers for the nearest locations until the Sublette County hospital opens:
St. Johns Medical Center: (307) 739-7531
Star Valley Health: (307) 885-5940
Sweetwater Memorial Hospital: (307) 362-3711
Power In Pink 5K Fun Run/Walk
If you’re looking for a way to support breast cancer awareness this October, join us for the Power in Pink 5K Fun Run/Walk at the Sublette County Fairgrounds on October 19th at 8:00AM. Registration is $25 per individual or $100 for a team.
To register, visit: Power in Pink 5K Registration.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important time to focus on prevention, early detection, and support for those affected by the disease. With the opening of Sublette County's new hospital, access to lifesaving mammograms will soon be more convenient than ever. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, staying vigilant with screenings, and participating in community events like the Power in Pink 5K, we can all play a part in reducing the impact of breast cancer in our community.