Last is unacceptable

Ladies, too many of you aren't listening to the doctor.

That's doctor as in physician; it's also Dr. as in Dr. Priscilla Bell, president of North Idaho College.

A new study reveals that in the last two years, more than one of every three Idaho women over the age of 40 did not receive cancer-screening mammograms. That puts Idaho dead last in the nation for screening.

These vital tests for breast cancer can be life-savers. Ask Dr. Bell. She really wants you to.

Almost one year ago, as word of Dr. Bell's illness quickly spread across campus, the college's leader urged the community to focus not on her health, but on theirs.

"Get your mammogram," she said. "That can't be overstressed."

Today, Dr. Bell is still carrying that banner for awareness, quietly waging her personal battle with cancer and its complications with no hint of self-pity or desire for it. She passionately wants other women to save themselves and their loved ones from unnecessary pain and heartache.

Since 2008, cancer has been the leading cause of death among women in Idaho. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women, behind lung cancer. In 2009 alone, there were more than 1,100 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed among women in Idaho and 185 deaths from breast cancer. It is estimated that one in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lives.

Here's the thing: Early detection is enormously helpful in assuring a positive outcome. For women diagnosed at an early stage, when the cancer is confined to breast tissue, about 95 percent will survive five years or longer. But for women diagnosed at a later stage, when the cancer has begun to spread, one of every four women will die within five years.

We can't think of a better investment any woman over 40 can make in herself than scheduling a mammogram each year. Sure, it's uncomfortable, but a little discomfort could go a long way in saving your life.