Here's where to get free breast cancer screenings across New Jersey this month
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey are hosting free breast cancer screenings and education programs across the state. The aim is to educate women about the importance of early detection and breast health, and offer free and accessible mammograms for those who qualify.
Early detection, regular screenings, and breast health education can save lives, but the CDC reports that nearly 30% of women miss their annual mammogram, according to a release from both groups.
“Annual screenings are some of the most important tools we have in the fight against breast cancer,” says Dr. M. Michelle Blackwood, Chief of Breast Surgery at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, and Director of Breast Health and Disease Management at RWJBarnabas Health. “Early detection of breast cancer significantly increases survival rates and outcomes, which is why we strongly encourage women age 40 and over make getting a mammogram a top priority. Doing so could save your life.”
Here are where the free breast cancer screenings are taking place. Registration is required.
Toms River
Tuesday, Oct. 11: 4 to 7 p.m. — Women’s Imaging Center at Community Medical Center, 368 Lakehurst Road, Toms River. To schedule an appointment, call 732-923-6472.
Rahway
Saturday, Oct. 15: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Rahway, 865 Stone St. To schedule an appointment, call 201-247-6428.
Lakewood
Wednesday, Oct. 19: 1 to 5:30 p.m. — Jacqueline M. Wilentz Comprehensive Breast Center at Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, 600 River Ave., Lakewood. To schedule an appointment, call 732-923-6472.
Newark
Friday, Oct. 21: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Frederick B. Cohen, MD, Comprehensive Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, 201 Lyons Ave., Newark. To schedule an appointment, call 973-926-3705.
Friday, Oct. 28, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Frederick B. Cohen, MD, Comprehensive Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, 201 Lyons Ave., Newark. To schedule an appointment, call 973-926-3705.
Jersey City
Saturday, Oct. 22, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Jersey City Medical Center, Women’s Health at Grove Street, 116 Newark Ave. 3rd Floor, Jersey City. To schedule an appointment, call 201-915-2145.
Elizabeth
Sunday, Oct. 22, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Trinitas Regional Medical Center Dorothy Hersh Clinic, 655 E. Jersey St., Elizabeth. To schedule an appointment, call 908-994-8244.
Saturday, Oct. 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Trinitas Regional Medical Center Dorothy Hersh Clinic, 655 E. Jersey St., Elizabeth. To schedule an appointment, call 908-994-8244.
Long Branch
Tuesday, Oct. 25, 4 to 6 p.m. — The Jacqueline M. Wilentz Comprehensive Breast Center at Monmouth Medical Center, 300 Second Ave., Long Branch. To schedule an appointment, call 732-923-6472.
Events planned
RWJBarnabas Health facilities and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey are also sponsoring several Breast Cancer Awareness Month events throughout the state. Events include:
The Pink Village at Willowbrook Mall (Bloomingdale’s Wing) — Features a health expo, screenings, “ask a doctor” table, giveaways and more. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, 1400 Willowbrook Blvd., Wayne.
Go Pink at the Commons — Music of Hope Symphony, makeovers, "Tables of Hope" and workshops, murals and more. Through Monday, Oct. 31, Bridgewater Commons Mall, 400 Commons Way, Bridgewater.
Ladies Night Out — A night dedicated to women’s health, a meet and greet with medical experts, and light refreshments. 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 12, Community Medical Center's Comprehensive Breast Center, 770 Lighthouse Drive, Suite 118A, Barnegat. To register, call 848-208-6203.
What You Need to Know About Advancements in Breast Cancer Treatment — Learn about advancements in breast cancer treatment options, screenings and reconstruction from medical experts. 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26, LiveWell Center at the Anne Vogel Family Care & Wellness Center, 200 Wyckoff Road, Eatontown. To register, call 732-923-6509.
Olympic Principles to Achieve Victory Over Breast Cancer — Hear four-time Olympian and Garden State native Joetta discuss prevention strategies for breast cancer from medical experts while enjoying a healthy dinner. 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 18, The Imperia, 1713 Easton Ave., Somerset. To register, go to https://bit.ly/3wdX6xB.
To learn more about breast health or to make a mammogram appointment, visit rwjbh.org/mammo.
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: New Jersey: Free breast cancer screenings offered in October
