King Edward VII Memorial Hospital's Mammography Department will host an open house to mark National Mammography Day on Friday, October 21.

Guided tours of the Diagnostic Imaging Department will be available from 10 a.m. to noon, pink ribbons will be distributed and clients and staff at both hospitals will be encouraged to wear pink as a sign of support.

The open house is part of KEMH's initiative for Breast Health Awareness Month which aims to educate women about early detection, diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer.

According to the Director of Diagnostic Imaging, Dr. Daniel Stovell, breast cancer is the most common cancer for women in Bermuda.

He encouraged every woman over the age of 40 to have an annual mammogram.

"Women should also perform self breast exams on a monthly basis and undergo clinical breast exams by a physician annually. We want to reach as many women as possible in our community with this important message," he said.

The Diagnostic Imaging Department also plans to offer a gift to clients who schedule mammograms during October.

Manager of Diagnostic Imaging, Elaine Williams, said each client who goes in for a mammogram will receive a bracelet.

"We will have a weekly draw as well for clients seen at Diagnostic Imaging in October, with prizes for the winners," she said.

KEMH has a fully accredited mammography programme, featuring the latest technologies and ensuring the lowest radiation dose possible to the patient.

Accredited by the American College of Radiology, the programme features excellent breast biopsy services, provided by a team of three full-time and one part-time technicians, as well as skilled and qualified radiologists.

To make an appointment for services provided by Diagnostic Imaging, call 239-2047.