MCG RAISES AWARENESS OF BREAST CANCER DURING THE MONTH OF OCTOBER

October 3, 2002

Augusta, Ga. -- Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women. Throughout the month of October, MCG Health System hosts several special events to educate the public, provide support and help raise awareness of this deadly disease.

On October 15, breast cancer awareness is the focus during an all-day presentation of educational materials, information and training aids to demonstrate how to perform a breast self-examination. The event takes place on the second floor of the hospital, Sydenstricker wing. Breast cancer information will also be distributed at all the main entrances of the hospital.
 
Survivors of breast cancer have shared tears, laughter and so much more during the years in the MCG Breast Cancer Support Group. The group celebrates its seventh anniversary on October 10 with a party aimed at reconnecting with former members of the group and encouraging new members to join. The event takes place in the fourth floor conference room of the Ambulatory Care Center.
 
Throughout the month, pink ribbons will be available in the outpatient clinics. MCG staff will also be out in force wearing their pink ribbons during the American Cancer Society's Pink Friday, an effort to raise awareness of breast cancer during one of Augusta's most popular events, First Friday.
 
The MCG Cancer Center offers brochures and educational videos about breast cancer on an ongoing basis. Videos may be viewed at the center or checked out and returned.

MCG HealthCare is the health system of the Medical College of Georgia and is comprised of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the School of Medicine and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Hospitals and Clinics, Children's Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by offering the highest level of primary and specialty health care.