As women, we know how important it is to get a screening mammogram every year, but sometimes it feels like life has other plans.

Between work, home, budgets, schedules and taking care of everyone else, there never seems to be enough time or resources to take care of ourselves. Mammography outreach at the Bearden-Josey Center for Breast Health is doing all we can to make sure women get the lifesaving screenings they need.

Many women do not have the time or cannot make the time to go out of their community to have their screening. They might have to take vacation time to get off of work or are the only ones who can pick the kids up from school. They might only have time on Saturdays or don't have transportation to get to our main locations. We come to them.

The Bearden-Josey Center for Breast Health has a 48-foot mobile mammography unit staffed by a team of registered mammography technologist with advanced training. The mobile unit provides an alternative setting for women to get a screening mammogram. The unit is just as comfortable and confidential as our locations but ultimately much more convenient. The interior of the unit includes state-of-the-art digital mammography equipment, two private changing rooms and a reception area.

Advanced digital mammography, like that provided by the mobile mammography unit, can identify tumors too small to be felt during a physical or self-exam. Early detection is a vital part of saving lives.

The mobile mammography unit brings screening mammograms anywhere that makes it more convenient for women. It travels to businesses, schools, offices and other community locations throughout Spartanburg, Cherokee and Union counties.

I have spoken to numerous women that told me they would never have a mammogram if it weren't for the mobile unit.

Women are eligible for screening mammogram on the mobile unit if they:

• Are 40 or older
• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
• Can walk up the stairs of the unit
• Do not have a history of breast cancer
• Do not have any current breast symptoms

Want to know when the mobile unit will be in your area? See the upcoming schedule at SpartanburgRegional.com/Events or call 864-560-7777. Want the mobile unit to come to your organization? Call mammography outreach at the Bearden-Josey Center for Breast Health at 864-560-6400.