Last year, an estimated 182,000 American women learned they had breast cancer. But because of medical advances, an early diagnosis of breast cancer increases the chances of survival. The National Cancer Institute states that getting a high-quality mammogram and having a clinical breast exam on a regular basis are the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure has awarded a $50,000 grant to St. Vincent's Foundation to help women who may not have the resources to obtain regular mammograms and other breast health services by targeting uninsured and under-insured women in Northeast Florida.

The project will provide medically underserved women in Northeast Florida with access to screening and diagnostic mammography, breast ultrasound, minimally invasive breast biopsies using mammography and sonography guidance - which are necessary to diagnose breast disease early -- and even transportation coverage.

St. Vincent's Josephine H. Bryan Breast Health Center provides more than 45,000 Breast Imaging and Bone density procedures each year. In keeping with the mission of St. Vincent's HealthCare to care for the sick and the poor, the Breast Health Center is committed to providing access to mammography services to all women in the community, regardless of their ability to pay. 

In addition to the services provided in the Josephine H. Bryan Breast Health Center, St. Vincent's also plans to use its Mobile Mammography unit to reach out to women in targeted areas of the community who lack access to these types of services.