In an effort to help local women who do not have health insurance or are underinsured, Emanuel Cancer Center is offering free mammograms for women over the age of 40 who may qualify to have a free screening for breast cancer as the New Year approaches.

With the help of a $20,000 grant from the Bill and Elsie Ahlem Cancer Endowment, Emanuel Cancer Center will provide 100 women free mammograms and any necessary follow-up tests held at the Ruby E. Bergman Women’s Diagnostic Center located inside the cancer center.

As one of Northern California’s most advanced breast-cancer detection facilities, the Bergman Center is offering the latest in digital mammography and image-guided biopsy capability.

“For women over 40, mammograms are an essential part of maintaining good health,” said Dr. Shana Escobar of the Women’s Diagnostic Center. “No woman should skip getting a mammogram because of health insurance reasons. But some do, and that’s what we’re trying to address with this Ahlem Cancer Endowment grant.”

Emanuel Cancer Center has been bringing world-class cancer care to Turlock since 2007, including advanced diagnostic services at the Ruby E. Bergman Women’s Diagnostic Center, medical oncology, radiation oncology at Stanford Emanuel Radiation Oncology Center, surgical and many other services for cancer patients and their families. Patients at the Emanuel Cancer Center can also have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials of new treatments.

To learn more about qualifying for the free mammograms offered by Emanuel Cancer Center, call 669-4600.