Dr. Samuel U. Rodgers believed that health care was a basic human right. His vision to ensure quality, accessible care regardless of ability to pay led to him founding the health center fifty years ago.
We're here because we love what we do. Hear from three Sam Rodgers Health Center providers about how they help create a safe space for families.
To schedule an appointment, please call (816) 474-4920. A member of our scheduling team will work with you to identify the best match for your clinic location, provider, and more!
Our patient resources provide a variety of support for our community. Sam Rodgers is dedicated to having accessible care for patients of every background. To schedule an appointment, please call (816) 474-4920!
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According to the National Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States after skin cancer. Breast Cancer can occur at any age, but the risk goes up as you get older. It is because of these high incidence rates that we focus on raising awareness for breast cancer each October. While the effects of cancer can often be devastating, many cases of breast cancer are treatable and detectable with proper screenings. Screenings allow patients and their providers the opportunity to look for cancer before symptoms begin to show. The earlier abnormal tissue is found the easier it is to treat.
Often, by the time symptoms are visible, the cancer has already begun to spread. Renee Jeria, Imaging Manager, here at Sam Rodgers spoke with us about the importance of screenings; “Mammography correctly identifies about 87% of women who truly have breast cancer, even in instances where the cancer is as small as a grain of rice,” she said.
Women should receive yearly mammograms once they reach the age of 40.
Research has shown breast cancers found by yearly Mammograms are smaller, and less advanced than cancers found by Mammograms done every 2 years. Renee shared that women who have a first degree (parent, child or sibling) relation to someone who has previously been diagnosed with cancer may need to determine other plans for screenings and early detection. For women under the age of 40, your medical provider should be performing a clinical breast exam yearly at your well woman exam and monthly self-examination should start at age 20 so any changes can be identified and reported.
Did you know that it is possible for MEN to be diagnosed with breast cancer? However, it can be slightly harder to detect since it is less common. Men if you find a lump make an appointment with your provider to have it checked.
The symptoms of breast cancer can be different for everyone; any changes you notice should be discussed with your doctor right away. “If found early enough, there is an almost 100% five year survival rate for breast cancer, which is why screenings are so important. Don’t wait to find something, be proactive and get peace of mind,” Renee said.
Sam Rodgers currently has programs in place to ensure that women, and men can receive the appropriate breast imaging as needed, make an appointment today!
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