Next week, mammograms will be available at Catalina Island Medical Center.

Inner Images will be providing a mammography unit and a physician's assistant to conduct the screenings, which are instrumental in detecting breast cancer. The mammograms will be available between Saturday, Nov. 8, and Tuesday, Nov. 11. 

According to the American Cancer Society, women in the United States have a one in eight chance of developing breast cancer over the course of their lifetimes.

CIMC Staff Physician Dr. Laura Ulibarri said that the best way to find the breast lumps that may be an indication of breast cancer or other issues is to do three things: "Have a regular mammogram, usually every one to two years starting around age 40; have your doctor check your breasts; and check your breasts yourself each month," she said.

Ulibarri said that mammography is particularly effective because it can detect cancer tissue sooner than monthly self exams.

"A mammogram is the most effective way to find breast cancer early -- up to two years before a lesion is even large enough to feel," she said.

She explained that mammography uses a special type of x-ray to create images of the breasts. "Mammograms detect cancer because cancer tissue is more dense than normal tissue," she said.

Appointments are necessary for the mammograms that will be available at CIMC. Private insurance, Medicare and Medi-Cal will be accepted. HMOs will not be accepted unless the patient brings a written pre-authorization for Inner Images.

For those who do not have insurance, the Cancer Detection Program is available to cover the costs of service for low-income women who are at least 40 years old and who live in California.

Private pay patients will be billed a discounted rate of $75 for the mammography and $60 for the breast exam and referral.

For more information or to make an appointment, call Linda Altherr at (310) 510-0520.

For more information visit www.CatalinaIslandMedicalCenter.org