DANVILLE — Despite the push for early diagnosis and the advances made in treatment, women must take the first step to detect breast cancer and decide which medical route they wish to pursue.

The members of the Georgetown Ladies Community Club want to help.

“Women may disregard their options for diagnosis and treatment for many reasons,” Nancy Boose, club president, said. “They may not have the information they need, or they may be misinformed. We want to promote awareness of the available technology.”

Boose included in that category biopsies that are less invasive than in the past. Women sometimes avoid this diagnostic measure due to the pain associated with older methods. Now, minimally invasive procedures take far less of a toll.

Lori Starwalt, vice president of the Georgetown Ladies Community Club, said the program includes more than information about new technology.

“There are lots of problems associated with breast cancer that stem from fear,” Starwalt said. “Women have to use preventative maintenance.

“So many people we know in life have had breast cancer — we all have someone, a friend, a family member, a co-worker. We want to get the word out that if the disease is caught early enough, a life can be saved.”

Many women who can’t afford mammograms don’t realize free exams are offered in the community.

A variety of options for those diagnosed with breast cancer will be presented during the event. Speakers will include medical personnel and breast cancer survivors.



IF YOU GO

The Georgetown Ladies Community Club presents “Stop Breast Cancer for Life,” a program open to the public, at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Georgetown Friends Church, 301 S. Main St., Georgetown. Call 662-2783 or 662-8714 for more information.