37,772. That’s the number of women who have received mammograms in the past 12 months at an HCA Midwest Health System hospital. That means that 37,772 potential lives have been saved through early detection. And, according to the American Cancer Society, screening exams for early breast cancer detection—before they start to cause symptoms—is one of the best ways to fight the disease. Midwest Breast Care, a service of HCA Midwest Health System—the largest healthcare network in Kansas City—is marking the 26th anniversary of Breast Cancer Awareness Month by emphasizing the importance of early detection through its “No Excuses. Get Screened.” campaign.

HCA Midwest Health System is also a major supporter of the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer fund-raising event scheduled to take place at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 29 at Liberty Memorial in Kansas City, Mo. In addition to sponsorship, HCA Midwest plans to support the walk by signing up 600 walkers who are motivated by personal and professional reasons to raise money to help in the cure and fight against breast cancer. HCA Midwest’s fund-raising goal is $20,000—money that will help save potential lives, help people get well, stay well, find a cure for breast cancer and fight back.

“We all visualize a world with more birthdays and less breast cancer,” says Steve Corbeil, president of HCA Midwest Health System. “Our involvement in this important event signifies our commitment to help save lives.”

In addition to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, several HCA Midwest hospitals will host events during October. Centerpoint Medical Center will host a Women’s Health Fair from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday, Oct. 15, in the Centerpoint Medical Center Auditorium. Guests will receive health information and free screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose and bone density. Walk-in mammograms will be available in The Breast Center from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.

Menorah Medical Center will kick-off the month’s activities with the annual Pink Power Ride on Sept. 24. The 100-mile charity poker ride that will leave from the Menorah campus at 10 a.m. following a free breakfast, sponsored by Gail’s Harley-Davidson, will benefit the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Again Breast Cancer. Menorah will also host its annual PINK public open house from 4 to 6 p.m. on Oct. 4, which includes walk-in mammogram screenings, free bra fittings, pink ribbons and a balloon release. Brandi Palmer, Mrs. Kansas US, a young breast cancer survivor, will share her story and sign autographs.

Research Belton Hospital will host “Pretty in Pink” Ladies Night Out from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 10 at the Belton High School Freshman Center at 801 W. North Ave. Stephanie Graff, MD, Midwest Cancer Care Physicians breast oncologist, will speak on “Understanding and Reducing Your Breast Cancer Risk.” Miss Missouri 2011, Sydney Friar, will be in attendance, and complimentary food will be served. Guests will be eligible for door prizes and will be able to shop vendor booths. Though the event is free and open to the public registration is required by calling (816) 361-4428.

The care teams at Midwest Breast Care understand women’s busy lives and offer eight convenient locations throughout the metro for routine screening mammograms with Saturday appointments and extended hours during the month of October. Locations include Centerpoint Medical Center, Lafayette Regional Health Center, Lee’s Summit Medical Center, Menorah Medical Center, Overland Park Regional Medical Center, Research Belton Hospital, Research Medical Center and Research Medical Center Brookside Campus. Walk-in screenings are available at several locations.

Centerpoint Medical Center, Menorah Medical Center, Overland Park Regional Medical Center and Research Medical Center have been granted a three-year/full accreditation designation by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), a program administered by the American College of Surgeons, following a rigorous evaluation process.

Midwest Breast Care uses advanced technology including digital mammography and MammoPad®—a soft foam cushion for use during screening for maximum comfort—and comprehensive follow-up services and breast cancer treatment options. Midwest Breast Care also offers MammoSite® at Menorah Medical Center and Research Medical Center. MammoSite is a targeted, breast-conserving radiation therapy for treating breast cancer. MammoSite allows women to receive treatment in five days rather than five to seven weeks for conventional radiation, minimizing both exposure of healthy tissue and side effects.

“Studies show early detection is the best protection when fighting breast cancer,” says Darryl Nelson, MD, chief medical officer of HCA Midwest Health System. “Our physicians know how vital screening mammograms are. We also know the decisions and choices during the time following a diagnosis are directed to one simple goal—achieving the best possible outcomes.”

The hospital breast centers that comprise Midwest Breast Care offer the community an ongoing comprehensive program of breast education, screening, diagnostics and treatment. “People diagnosed with breast cancer in the Kansas City metro area have caring, progressive and innovative programs to make a cancer journey less complex and confusing,” says Dr. Nelson.

For more information on Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, hospital events and mammograms, visit www.midwestbreast.com or call toll-free 1 (888) 953-3322 to schedule a mammogram.