STHS to Host Luncheon To Honor Breast Cancer Warriors As Part Of Its Cinco De Mammo Initiative

To kick off its annual Cinco de Mammo initiative, STHS is hosting a special luncheon featuring the participation of women who have survived and thrived in their battle with breast cancer

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States, per the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Nationally, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with nearly 320,000 women expected to be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer this year alone.

Accounting for about 30% of new female cancers each year, the life-threatening disease typically occurs in middle-aged and older women, however, more breast cancer cases are being diagnosed in women under 40.

But there’s positive news. Advances in screenings and treatment have reduced the overall risk of death from breast cancer, making early detection crucial in improving the chances of successful treatment.

A noninvasive X-ray used to detect cancer and abnormalities in the breast, mammograms are the only tests shown to reduce breast cancer deaths, according to the American College of Radiology. Mammograms can detect breast cancer early, when it is most treatable, making it an effective screening tool that allows for timely treatment before the disease can spread, which can help improve treatment outcomes.

Throughout the month of May, South Texas Health System is raising awareness on breast cancer and the importance of early detection. Through its annual Cinco de Mammo initiative, STHS is encouraging women to speak with their doctor about their breast cancer risk and to schedule their annual mammograms.

To launch this special initiative, STHS is hosting a special Celebration of Strength & Hope luncheon event that will feature the participation of women who have survived and thrived in their battle with breast cancer. This year’s speakers include Elvia Gibbs, Elda Flores and Erika Galan.

Beyond recognizing and honoring the survivors of breast cancer, the Celebration of Strength & Hope luncheon will also commemorate those lives lost to the disease and offer important education on early screenings and their significance in increasing the rate of survival.

“This Celebration of Strength & Hope luncheon is important because it’s helping individuals battling breast cancer find support and encouragement while providing a sense of hope, inspiring others to believe in their ability to overcome the disease,” says Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “By sharing their experiences, breast cancer survivors can help others feel less alone and build community. But that’s not all… They’re able to offer valuable information about cancer screenings, diagnosis and treatment to ensure all women in the Rio Grande Valley take steps to prioritize their breast health.”

Taking place on Monday, May 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Royal Palm Ballroom at Casa De Palmas, the luncheon will offer the community the opportunity to learn more about STHS’ annual Cinco De Mammo initiative, including the system’s Mammo Mondays at STHS McAllen, STHS Edinburg, STHS ER Mission and STHS ER Weslaco. The designated education days offer local residents an opportunity to speak with facility staff about breast cancer screening options, including cash pricing on mammograms.

Space is limited for the A Celebration of Strength & Hope luncheon, so registration is required. To RSVP, visit ticketleap.events.

For more information on Cinco de Mammo and reduced price screenings, visit CincoDeMammo.com.

About South Texas Health System

South Texas Health System is a multi-facility healthcare system serving patients throughout the Rio Grande Valley. The system includes four acute care facility campuses with specialties in pediatrics, heart and vascular services, maternity and women’s health and trauma services. Inpatient and outpatient treatment for behavioral health needs and addictive disorders is also provided through the system’s South Texas Health System Behavioral facility. South Texas Health System is affiliated with the South Texas Clinical Partners ACO, Prominence Health Plan and Cornerstone Regional Hospital. The system operates an advanced Level I Trauma Center at South Texas Health System McAllen, the first and only freestanding children’s facility and pediatric ER at South Texas Health System Children’s, the region’s only freestanding heart hospital and specialized cardiac ER at South Texas Health System Heart and seven freestanding emergency rooms located in and around Weslaco, Mission, Edinburg, McAllen, Pharr and Alamo. For more information about the system and its comprehensive services, please visit www.southtexashealthsystem.com.

Physicians are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of South Texas Health System. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.