Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women, affecting one in eight women, according to Upstate University Hospital’s Mobile Mammography Program. It is also one of the most treatable cancers when detected early, which is why Upstate brings these potentially life saving screenings into Central New York communities through its mobile mammography van.

The mobile health clinic provides the same high-quality, low-dose, 3-D screening mammograms (x-rays of the breast) available at all of Upstate’s breast imaging locations. Officials say that mammograms are the most effective screening procedure for the early signs of breast cancer.

Officials recommend yearly screening mammography starting at age 40 for women of average risk. Women should talk to their doctor about what their risk is for developing breast cancer and come up with a plan for when to start mammograms. Those with breast problems and symptoms may need other imaging and should talk to their doctor.

Screening mammography on the Upstate mobile unit is available for women ages 40 and older with no recent breast complications. Women who are having problems with their breasts (lumps found, nipple discharge) should contact their physician to discuss options.

These screenings are important to detect cancer early for the best possible treatment, shared Wendy Hunt, Upstate’s Mobile Mammography program manager.

“I don’t see the patients myself, but I hear the stories from the staff, and I think there are many people … who would have not gotten screened if we did not take the van into their community,” she said.

A script is needed for your screening mammogram. If you have a doctor or other health care provider, Upstate will request it from them. If you do not have a doctor, you can get a clinical breast exam with the registered nurse on the van and an Upstate physician will provide the order for your mammogram one time. If you want to continue to get your mammogram with the Upstate mobile unit, you will need to have a health care provider who will provide a script.

“We have a wonderful team,” Hunt said. “They just are so good to the patients, and the patients respond to that.” She continued, “it’s a wonderful opportunity because the staff are great and they do a great job making patients feel comfortable.”

Mobile mammography schedule:

• Tuesday, Oct. 18: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Adirondack High School, 8181 NY-294, Boonville.

• Thursday, Oct. 27: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at New Hartford Public Library, 2 Library Lane, New Hartford.

• Tuesday, Nov. 1: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Town of Webb Park Ave. offices, 183 Park Ave., Old Forge.

• Wednesday, Nov. 2: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Town of Webb Park Ave. offices, 183 Park Ave., Old Forge.

• Friday, Nov. 11: 9 a.m to 3 p.m. at Tops Friendly Markets, 71 Nelson Street, Cazenovia.

• Wednesday, Nov. 16: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Clayville Library, 2265 Oneida St, Clayville.

• Tuesday, Jan. 10: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kinney Drugs, 2 Preston Hill St, Camden.

Appointments are recommended. To schedule an appointment, call 315-464-2588 or visit www.upstate.edu/mobile-mammography/request-appt.php.