Baystate Health Announces Free Virtual Breast-health Series in October
SPRINGFIELD — Baystate Health will offer a free virtual breast-health series during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which viewers can participate in from the comfort of their own homes beginning Oct. 14.
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month began in 1985 as a way to help promote mammography as the most powerful prevention tool. While awareness has increased significantly over the years, people still overlook the steps to help prevent the disease in its earliest stages. The virtual series, presented by breast-health experts from Baystate, is designed to stress the importance of prevention and to share the latest information on treatment. Among the topics in the series will be:
Wednesday, Oct. 14: “Innovative Seed Procedure for Breast Surgery,” a technique that employs advanced radiologic imaging allowing surgeons to locate breast tumors and make more precise incisions and to remove the cancer in its entirety with minimal disturbance to the surrounding tissue. Presented by Dr. Holly Mason, section chief, Breast Surgery, Baystate Surgical Oncology & Breast Specialists.
Wednesday, Oct. 21: “3D Printing in Radiation Therapy.” 3D printing has expanded in purpose to include clinical practice. For radiation treatment, professionals can now create devices by 3D printing called boluses that protect critical areas, optimize treatment, improve the accuracy and safety of treatment, while at the same time making it a faster process for the patient and the treating therapists. Presented by Dr. Michael Yunes, division chief, Radiation Oncology, Baystate Regional Cancer Program at the D’Amour Center for Cancer Care.
Thursday, Oct. 22: “The Restorative Breast Collaboration.” Learn how, in order to restore a woman’s silhouette, the plastic surgeon and breast surgeon collaborate to provide the best possible cosmetic results, and listen to a conversation about the ways to restore the breast, timing for surgery, and what to expect. Presented by Dr. Danielle Lipoff, breast surgeon, Baystate Breast Surgical Oncology & Breast Specialists; and Dr. William Collins, plastic surgeon, Baystate Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.
Wednesday, Oct. 28: “A Closer Look at Mammograms: The Radiologist & Mammography,” a discussion about mammography, how doctors read them, when a call back is needed, and what role BI-RADS plays in the process. Presented by Dr. Jennifer Hadro, radiologist, Baystate Radiology & Imaging, and interim medical co-director, Baystate Breast and Wellness Center.
All virtual sessions will be held from 6 to 7 p.m., with plenty of time for questions and answers. Those virtually attending all four events will receive a free gift. To register, visit baystatehealth.org/breastseries.