WASHINGTON — Washington, D.C. has one of the highest breast cancer mortality rates in the country, according to the American Cancer Society. Those rates in wards seven and eight are the highest in the area.
"These women are primarily African-American women who tend to be younger. It was important to provide them access to mammography screening, which we know helps to decrease and lower those mortality rates," said Dr. Regina Hampton, a breast cancer surgeon.
Dr. Hampton is one of the co-founders of Breast Care for Washington. It is a clinic that provides 3-D mammograms and ultrasounds to women east of the Anacostia River.
"Prior to us being in that area, women had to travel taking buses, subways, sometimes multiple just to get across the Anacostia to get a simple mammogram," she said.
The clinic offers these services regardless of someone's insurance status. Breast Care for Washington is staffed by women who live in the community they serve. The founders said the goal is to provide a safe, judgment-free experience that will build trust in the health care system.
"We are here for you, we look like you and we understand the trials and tribulations you're going through," said Hampton.
According to Dr. Hampton, the clinic saw about a 20% decline in mammogram appointments during the pandemic. Now, the clinic staff is working on getting women back into their routines.
"I say to women, let's give ourselves grace and say you know what, I missed it, but guess what, I'm going to get right back on track and get on schedule," said Hampton.
On Oct. 29 at 8 a.m., join Allison Seymour, Annie Yu, Michelle Logan and Tony Perkins along with Great Day Washington’s Kristen Berset and a few special guests for "Still Standing," a virtual celebration of breast cancer survivors and thrives, along with advocates. Grab your pink and come help us fill the screens!
Text AWARENESS to 833-987-2929 to register.