By Michelle Han
The Women's Health Center at North Shore University Hospital in Forest Hills will provide appointments for free breast and cervical cancer screenings for women at the hospital Monday.
The date marks the beginning of the American Cancer Society's “Daffodil Days” fund-raising drive.
North Shore University Hospital at Forest Hills, an affiliate of North Shore Long Island Jewish Health System, became a member of the American Cancer Society's Queens Breast Health Partnership. The women's health program, funded by the state Health Department and administered by the ACS, is kicking off the fund-raising drive with the March 27 event.
“Our mission is twofold,” said Hannah Brooks, director of breast services at the Forest Hills hospital. “First, we hope to increase awareness about breast and cervical cancer so that women living in our community understand the need for life-saving vigilance and timely checkups.”
“Second, we are committed to providing access to screening for all women in our community regardless of their ability to pay,” Brooks said.
Brooks, Dr. Laura Kuperman, a gynecologist at the hospital, and a representative from the American Cancer Society will speak to women about the importance of regular screenings and treatment methods from 10 a.m. to noon Monday, March 27.
Women who are underinsured or who do not have any health insurance will be able to schedule appointments for free screenings. Cancer patients and breast cancer survivors will also be available to speak to women about their experiences.
After making appointments, Brooks and Kuperman will perform the free examinations at the hospital's new breast center on the second floor of the hospital, at 102-01 66th Rd. in Forest Hills.
Breast cancer, the leading cause of cancer death among women, is highly treatable with early intervention, medical experts say. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 175,000 women nationwide will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.
For more information or to schedule a screening please call the hospital at 830-4000.
