Knox Community Hospital recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month

MOUNT VERNON – During October, Knox Community Hospital will participate in National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 

Breast cancer is the second most common kind of cancer in women. According to the Commission on Cancer: In 2021, an estimated 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women; 2,650 cases diagnosed in men; and an additional 49,290 cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) diagnosed in women in the U.S. An estimated 44,130 people will die from the disease (43,600 women, 530 men).  

The good news is that according to the American Cancer Society, many women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. 

• If you are a woman age 40 to 44, talk with your doctor about when to start getting mammograms and how often to get them. 
• If you are a woman age 45 to 54, undergo an annual mammogram.
• If you are a woman age 55 or older, be sure to get a mammogram every 2 years.
• You may also choose to get them more often. 

Talk to a doctor about your risk for breast cancer, especially if a close family member has had breast or ovarian cancer. At KCH, the monthlong observance of breast cancer awareness includes a pink display at the front entrances, pink-ribbon themed goodies at the Cancer Center and other activities. For more information, visit www.kch.org/obstetrics-gynecology.

Knox Community Hospital is a 99-bed, Joint Commission-accredited community hospital located in Mount Vernons. Members of the Knox Community Hospital medical staff represent numerous specialties, offering a wide range of clinically excellent services, surprising for a community hospital. Our dedicated staff, along with a strong team of volunteers, is committed to providing personalized, high-quality care. Knox Community Hospital’s independent, not-for-profit status ensures that all remaining revenue after expenses is committed solely to improving patient services, technology, and facilities for the health of the people of Knox County and surrounding areas.