(Picture Source: Madisonville Lions Club/Facebook)
At last week’s meeting, Madisonville Lions Club members heard an informative presentation on breast cancer awareness and the importance of early detection from Heather Towe, Oncology Nurse Navigator at the Merle Mahr Cancer Center.
Towe discussed Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the Paint the Town Pink initiative, which is designed to spark conversations about early detection and awareness. Club officials noted that Towe reported breast cancer was the most treated cancer at Merle Mahr last year, with an increasing number of cases diagnosed in younger women, some in their late 20s and early 30s.
Towe strongly encouraged monthly self-exams, recommended women have their first mammogram at age 40 according to current guidelines, and emphasized the importance of family history, noting that cancer can be hereditary and that, as of 2025, more than 200 DNA markers linked to cancer risk have been identified.
She also reminded the group that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime, but if caught early at stage one, the survival rate is 98 percent. Towe added that men can develop breast cancer as well, making self-exams important for everyone.
If you don’t have insurance, Towe noted that the Cancer Center has a grant that covers screening services for free, ensuring everyone has access to care.
The Lions Club also welcomed new member Ken Curry with a unanimous vote.
