Free mammograms in October: ASSE and the Hospital de Clínicas strengthen prevention efforts nationwide.
During the month of October, the State Health Services Administration (ASSE) and the Hospital de Clínicas are making their mammograms available at multiple locations across the country. This initiative, part of Breast Cancer Prevention Month, seeks to facilitate access to early diagnosis for women over 40 who are asymptomatic and have not received current screening tests.
The program stands out for its accessibility: it doesn't require a doctor's prescription and is open to users of all healthcare providers. Furthermore, some centers allow walk-in access, further expanding the opportunities for participation.
Why is it essential to have a mammogram?
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in women worldwide. In Uruguay, nearly 1,800 new cases are detected each year. Mammography is the most effective method for detecting lesions in early stages, when treatment is most likely to be successful.
According to the Ministry of Public Health , women between the ages of 50 and 69 are recommended to have a mammogram every two years. However, in cases with a family history or risk factors, screening can begin earlier.
Available centers and key dates
The campaign is extending nationwide. In Montevideo, INCA, Hospital de Clínicas, Pereira Rossell, Pasteur, and Saint Bois offer mammograms throughout the month. In the interior of the country, hospitals in Rivera, Rocha, Maldonado, Lavalleja, Soriano, Flores, Río Negro, Paysandú, Colonia, and San José are also participating with specific screening days.
Some centers require an appointment, such as the Colonia Hospital or INCA, while others, such as the Melo Hospital or the Fray Bentos Hospital, offer walk-in care. At the Pereira Rossell Hospital, a special appointment was also held for public and private healthcare workers .
How to access the service
Each institution has its own coordination system. In some cases, appointments can be made via WhatsApp, as at the Hospital de Clínicas (098 294 499) or the Hospital de Colonia (092 898 672). In others, simply show up at the scheduled time, as at the Pasteur Hospital or the Pan de Azúcar Auxiliary Center.
For details on each center, please visit the Ministry of Public Health's official website https://www.gub.uy/ministerio-salud-publica / or contact the hospital directly.
Social and health impact
The campaign not only seeks to increase mammogram screening coverage but also to raise awareness about the importance of prevention. In parallel, informative talks are being held, such as the one on October 30 at INCA, where topics related to breast cancer and its early detection will be addressed.
Free and decentralized access allows women in rural areas or with mobility difficulties to undergo screening without financial or bureaucratic barriers. This strategy reinforces the health system's commitment to equity and prevention.
What to consider before attending?
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- Be over 40 years old
- Not presenting symptoms
- Not having had a mammogram in the last year
- Bring identification
- Check if the center requires a prior appointment
Institutional commitment and call for participation
The free mammogram screening campaign in October reflects the public health system's commitment to prevention and equitable access. ASSE and the Hospital de Clínicas invite all women over 40 to take advantage of this opportunity. Early detection saves lives, and this joint effort seeks to bring this possibility to every corner of the country.
