On-site pampering glams up HealthPlex mammograms

Although most women understand its importance, scheduling their annual mammogram is not something they anticipate in the way they might a relaxing massage or a soothing paraffin hand treatment.

One area hospital is looking to change that.

Women who make an appointment for the upcoming HealthPlex Imaging “Mamm & Glamm” event can enjoy both, Monongahela Valley Hospital planners say.

HealthPlex Imaging is hosting the free event from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 14 at its 800 Plaza Drive, Rostraver location, in an effort to encourage more women to get their annual exams.

Women can schedule their screening, and then look forward to enjoying some free spa services. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided, along with other treats and refreshments, planners say.

The program has been offered in the past through a grant, says Alyssa Zenobi, a hospital spokeswoman.

“No prescription is needed, but you do need an appointment. We encourage everyone to call and get more information, even if they are not interested in the ‘Mamm & Glamm,’” Zenobi says.

“We are really excited this program has returned. Prevention is so important in detecting breast cancer,” says Mary Ann Konsugar, HealthPlex Imaging manager.

“We’ve reached many who were postponing their exams or who had never had a mammogram,” she adds.

The facility offers 3-D mammograms, improving the ability to detect breast cancer in dense breasts and generally lower the number of callbacks and additional tests, it states.

Konsugar says HealthPlex Imaging follows national guidelines from the American Cancer Society, American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging, all of which recommend yearly mammograms starting at age 40 and continuing as long as a woman is in good health.

“Women ages 20 to 39 should have a clinical breast exam about every three years by their physician,” she says. “Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women and mammograms have helped reduce deaths from breast cancer in this country by 30%.

Zenobi says the event has proven popular in the past. “We always have 50 to 60 people. We have to put a cap on it. We always have full attendance,” she says.

For more details, or to schedule an appointment, call 724-379-1911.