Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic Highlights Importance of Breast Self-Exams, Quarterly Mammogram Services

ELLINWOOD, Kan. — October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic is reminding women that early detection saves lives. Alongside regular mammograms, monthly breast self-exams play an important role in recognizing changes early.

“Self-exams help women become familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel,” said Ashley Komarek, APRN, Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic. “If something feels different — a lump, skin change, or unusual pain — it’s important to contact your healthcare provider.”

The American Cancer Society currently recommends that women with average risk of breast cancer begin annual mammograms at age 40 and continue as long as they are in good health. Women at higher risk — such as those with a family history of breast cancer — may need to begin screenings earlier.

To make screenings more accessible, the Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic hosts a mobile mammography van at its facility every other month. Upcoming dates include Oct. 30 and Dec. 30.

“These visits bring vital services right to our community,” Komarek said. “They ensure women don’t have to travel far for this essential preventive care.”

Appointments are required for mammograms. To schedule, call 620-564-2548.

Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic

Ellinwood Hospital and Clinic is a Critical Access Hospital and Rural Health Clinic serving Central Kansas. With a 24/7 Emergency Room, full-service laboratory, imaging, surgical, and therapy services, urology, pain management, cardiology, and respiratory therapy, the hospital provides high-quality care close to home.