The Ministry of Health of Jujuy is reminding the public that mammography, a key test for early detection of breast cancer, is available free of charge at several public health facilities in the province. The announcement comes during “Pink October,” a month dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer.
Residents can request mammograms at the Centro de Especialidades Norte (CEN) and at Pablo Soria and Snopek hospitals in San Salvador de Jujuy, Oscar OrÃas Hospital in Libertador, Arturo Zabala Hospital in Perico, Guillermo Paterson Hospital in San Pedro, and General Belgrano Hospital in Humahuaca. In addition, services will soon be available at Jorge Uro Hospital in La Quiaca and Gallardo Hospital in Palpalá.
Francisco Gómez, head of the Breast Cancer Control Program within the Provincial Directorate of Cancer, said: “Regular check-ups with mammography allow for early detection and reduce mortality from breast cancer.” He also explained: “As part of Strategic Health Plan II, equipment has been updated at Pablo Soria and OrÃas hospitals and a high-tech mammography machine has been added to Paterson Hospital, making it easier for the community to access this exam.”
Gómez described mammography as follows: “Mammography is the only validated study that allows us to detect disease even when it is smaller than 5 millimeters. It consists of an X-ray image of the mammary gland that helps identify a nodule before it can be felt. The test takes little time, does not cause pain, and should be performed annually starting at age 40.”
He added: “In case of diagnosis, people with breast cancer receive regular monitoring and have access to various treatment options including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy; however, treatment is personalized based on each particular case so that the team offers the best alternative,” emphasizing that mental health support is also important.
Finally, Gómez stated: “We must take action rather than worry—especially by achieving early diagnosis—since survival exceeds 90% of cases and even allows for preservation of the breast.”
