The Walker County Health Department announced it will recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Day by hosting a special event offering free clinical breast exams and subsidized mammography screenings this month.

The preventive health event is scheduled for Tuesday, October 7, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the health department facility located at 603 E. Villanow St. in LaFayette.

The event aims to remove financial barriers to critical preventive care, a measure crucial in a county that recorded 55 deaths due to breast cancer between 2020 and 2024. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women, and early detection significantly increases survival rates.

Appointments Required for Mammograms

The health department will provide free clinical breast exams in-house. While appointments are recommended, walk-ins will be accepted for these exams.

For specialized imaging, the CHI Memorial mobile mammography bus will be on site to offer mammography screenings. However, these screenings are strictly by appointment only.

Danielle Acuff, health department nurse manager, urged the public to act quickly to secure a slot for the imaging procedure.

“There are limited appointment slots for mammography screening,” Acuff said. “So we encourage interested individuals to call the health department and make an appointment for this special medical procedure right away.”

Removing Financial Barriers to Health

The initiative is part of the department’s commitment to improving community health outcomes through accessibility.

“We’re committed to making preventive care accessible to everyone,” Acuff stated. “This event removes financial barriers and empowers women to take charge of their health. Our healthcare professionals will provide clinical breast exams in a supportive, private environment.”

In addition to the medical services, attendees will receive light refreshments, door prizes, and goody bags. Educational materials and resources on breast health and self-exams will also be available.

Women interested in receiving a clinical breast exam or scheduling a crucial mammography screening should call the Walker County Health Department at 706-638-5577 to make an appointment.