Below, you’ll find a list of resources we have found to be helpful in the fight against breast cancer. Or, if you’d like to speak to one of our patient services volunteers, get more information, need help with preventative screenings, surgeries, traveling expenses or more, please contact us.

 

Antrim County High Tea 2023 Speakers

Rachel Krino
Marketing and Outreach Director
East Jordan Health Center

We’re excited to join this year’s High Tea with amazing news. Bellaire and East Jordan Family Health Centers are proud to announce the addition of two new Hologic 3D Mammography machines, replacing our existing 2D machines.

Currently, Munson and McLaren offer 3D mammography in most of their locations. However, the additional of this state-of the art Hologic technology makes us the first in our area to offer the Genius™ 3D Mammography™ Exams. This exam provides more comfort and fewer call backs, while being close to home.

Our staff has worked for over two years to bring this new technology to Antrim and Charlevoix Counties and was made possible by a grant from the Michigan Primary Care Association (MPCA) and the United Health Foundation. Their investment will help us to provide our patients with the best possible care. Being able to offer 3D mammography at our Health Centers is a huge asset to our communities, as patients will no longer have to travel out of the county for this service.

Thanks to our collaboration with Antrim County’s High Tea and our Health Center’s Sliding Fee Discount Program, we can offer this service at minimal or no cost to qualifying individuals.  In fact, our Sliding Fee Discount Program helps qualifying patients with all their healthcare needs, even if they have insurance.

Please spread the word. There should be no barriers to getting routine screenings.

Patients hesitant to receive their preventative screening can rest easy knowing their experience will be more comfortable, more affordable, and more reliable.

As part of our expanded 3D mammography services, we are also partnering with the Know Your Lemons Foundation to raise awareness about the importance of breast self-exams. Monthly breast self-exams play a crucial role in bridging the gap between mammograms.

The Bellaire Family Health Center is committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive healthcare to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay. We are excited to bring this technology to Antrim County.

 

Shannon Notestine
Mammogram Technician
East Jordan Health Center

As many of you are aware, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, surpassed only by lung cancer. Shockingly, statistics reveal that one in eight women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives. The stage at which breast cancer is detected significantly impacts a woman’s chances of survival. Early detection can lead to a five-year survival rate of an impressive 98 percent.

Our Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exams, available on our Selenia® Dimensions® system from Hologic, are revolutionizing breast cancer detection by providing a superior option for women of all breast densities compared to 2D alone. Researchers have found that this cutting-edge technology can detect 20-65% more invasive breast cancers than 2D mammography alone, representing an average increase of 41%. Furthermore, the Genius™ 3D Mammography™ exam is the only FDA-approved method deemed superior for women with dense breasts compared to 2D alone. Additionally, this groundbreaking exam has been shown to reduce callbacks by up to 40% compared to 2D alone.

The benefits of 3D mammography are truly remarkable. Not only does it detect breast cancer earlier than 2D mammography, but it also reduces the need for call-back mammograms. This technology provides a clearer picture in all types of breast tissue, making it especially valuable for women with dense breasts.


Heather Hytner

Managing Partner, Spice & Tea Exchange

Ladies and gentlemen,
Today, I stand before you to talk about a remarkable beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries and carries with it numerous health benefits. I invite you on a journey to discover the wonders of tea and, in particular, the extraordinary powers of matcha tea. As we delve into the realm of tea, we will explore its origins, its unique characteristics, and how it relates to breast cancer.
To truly appreciate the story of tea, we must start with its humble beginnings. All tea, whether it be green, black, white, or oolong, comes from the same plant: Camellia sinensis. However, it is the diverse hybrids, cultivation techniques, and processing methods that give rise to the myriad of tea varieties we know today. Each one carries its distinct flavor profile and health benefits.
Now, let’s focus our attention on matcha tea. Matcha stands out as a truly exceptional tea because it is not your ordinary infusion. Unlike other teas where the leaves are steeped and then discarded, matcha is unique in that it is made from finely ground green tea leaves that are ingested in their entirety. This means that when you drink matcha, you are consuming the entire leaf, unlocking a treasure trove of nutrients and benefits.
One of the remarkable properties of matcha is its high concentration of antioxidants. Antioxidants play a crucial role in our bodies by neutralizing harmful free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage our cells and DNA. Research suggests that antioxidants may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including certain types of cancer.
Speaking of cancer, let’s address the important topic of breast cancer. Breast cancer affects millions of women worldwide, and finding ways to prevent and combat this disease is of paramount importance. While it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice, studies have shown that certain lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a healthy diet, can have a positive impact on breast cancer risk.
Here’s where matcha tea comes into the picture. Matcha contains a unique type of antioxidant called catechins, which have been linked to various health benefits, including potential cancer-fighting properties. Research suggests that the consumption of green tea, including matcha, may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Furthermore, the way our bodies absorb caffeine from tea is different compared to other sources. Tea contains a compound called L-theanine, which has a calming effect and can help counterbalance the stimulating effects of caffeine. This combination of caffeine and L-theanine provides a more sustained release of energy and promotes a state of relaxed alertness.
Incorporating matcha tea into your routine can be a simple yet impactful step towards enhancing your overall well-being. The vibrant green powder can be easily whisked into hot water to create a delicious and invigorating beverage. You can also explore creative ways to include matcha in your daily life, such as adding it to smoothies, baked goods, or even savory dishes.
In conclusion, the world of tea is a fascinating one, with a rich history and a plethora of benefits waiting to be explored. Matcha tea, in particular, stands out for its unique properties and potential impact on breast cancer prevention. By embracing matcha and making it a part of your routine, you are not only indulging in a delightful beverage but also nourishing your body with an abundance of nutrients and antioxidants.
So, let us raise our cups to the power of tea, to the wonders of matcha, and to a future where cancer truly hates tea. Thank you.


 

Click the button below to learn more about Breast Cancer Nutrition.

A presentation by Jarrod Hufford, RDN, LD from Outpatient Oncology Dietitian, Cowell Cancer Center – Munson Medical, shared during the 2022 Antrim County High Tea Luncheon.