Women are being urged to book a mammogram appointment at an open house event at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital on Friday from noon to 2 p.m.

The hospital's mammography unit is opening its doors to the public as part of Breast Health Awareness Month and is particularly hoping to attract women aged 40 and above.

Carla Cann, chief mammography technician at KEMH, said: "We want women to practise good breast care throughout their lives. We are urging every woman who turns 40 to have an annual mammogram."

She added: "It is vital for women to take an active role in protecting their health. Regular breast self-exams, annual check-ups with a physician and regularly scheduled mammograms should be a part of every women's regime."

The department at KEMH provides screening and diagnostic mammogram, ultrasound, stereotactic biopsy, breast biopsy and follow-up care, carried out by qualified radiologists and technologists. "We offer a continuum of care and service," said Ms Cann. "Women who come to the hospital are able to have everything done in one place and in a timely manner."

Dr. Terence Sparling, director of oncology for Bermuda Hospitals Board, said mortality rates for breast cancer had declined over the past two decades.

"Earlier detection through screening, improved treatment and changes in risk factors have all contributed to these declining rates," he said.

"Early detection continues to be the best protection for women. If a woman is 40 years old or older, she should have a mammogram every one to two years. Women who are at higher than average risk of breast cancer should talk with their healthcare providers about whether to have mammograms before age 40 and how often to have them."