Breast Health
You can help beat the breast cancer odds through early detection. Kapi'olani Medical Center at Pali Momi's Mammography Program uses state-of-the-art digital mammography equipment that can detect tumors less than one centimeter in size.
Kapi'olani Medical Center at Pali Momi is a designated provider for the state's Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program aimed at identifying cancer early when it is most treatable. Free screenings are available for women who qualify.
Mammography Program
Beat the Odds
The odds are that one in three women will find a lump in her breast at some point in her life. One in eight women will develop breast cancer. While the majority of lumps are benign, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women.
You can help beat the breast cancer odds through early detection. Kapi'olani Medical Center at Pali Momi's Mammography Program uses state-of-the-art digital mammography equipment that can detect tumors less than one centimeter in size. Some of these tumors may not be detected by physical examination. Detection and treatment at this early stage allows the best prospect for recovery.
Regular physician examinations
Starting at age 20, you should have your breasts regularly examined by your physician. The need for routine examinations will vary according to your family medical history, your age and your own uniqueness.
Mammogram
A mammogram is a breast X-ray. If you have a lump or other symptoms, your doctor will probably recommend that you have a mammogram. It can also detect breast cancer before there are any symptoms, much as a PAP test can detect cervical cancer early.
Experts estimate that regular mammogram screenings could result in a 30% reduction in breast cancer deaths.
You may be concerned about the long-term effects of regular breast X-rays. Recent advances in techniques and equipment have lowered the amount of radiation needed to produce a mammogram. The benefits of mammograms far outweigh any possible risk. A standard two-view mammogram of each breast requires less radiation than most dental X-rays.
Who should have a mammogram
The American Cancer Society now recommends an annual mammogram beginning at age 40.
Your physician may also recommend more frequent mammograms starting at an earlier age if:
- You have a personal history of breast cancer.
- Your mother or sister has had breast cancer.
- You have never had children or had your first child after age 30.
- You began menstruating before you were 11 years old.
For an appointment
Scheduling your appointment is easy:
Call (808) 535-7000.
Or request an appointment online.
Kapi'olani Mammography Services are accredited by the American College of Radiology and certified by the FDA.
Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program
Free Mammograms and PAP Tests
Annual mammograms and PAP tests are key in detecting breast and cervical cancer early when they are most treatable. Kapi'olani is pleased to provide these free services.
- Clinical Breast Exam – free
- Mammogram – free
- Pelvic Exam – free
- PAP Test – free
Who is eligible for free services?
Free screenings are made possible through this program, which is administered by the Hawaii State Department of Health. To be eligible, the following criteria must be met:
- Female, 50-64 years*
(*Exceptions are women age 40-49 with family history or current symptoms of breast or cervical cancer.)
- Little or no medical insurance, or cannot afford co-payment** (**generous income guidelines)
If a woman is found to have cancer, financial assistance is also available for treatment services. If you need assistance but do not meet the criteria above, please call us to find out about other programs you may qualify for.
For more information, call (808) 973-3015.