In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an area hospital made a special effort to put women at ease about their mammograms. On Thursday, UPMC Altoona held a walk-in mammography day at Station Medical Center. The hospital offered screening mammography to both walk-in and scheduled patients.

Since the thought of having a mammogram can create anxiety, the event featured vendors and massages in order to make the day more relaxing and fun. UPMC doctors were also on hand to mingle with patients.

Of course, the main purpose was to ensure that women received an up-to-date screening and to remind them to make their health a priority. Women without insurance received help covering the cost of the test.

Dr. Lauren Deur, Director of Breast Imaging, UPMC Altoona Station Medical Center said  women at average risk of developing breast cancer should have their first mammogram at the age of 40. But, those with a strong family history of it, such as a mother or sister with breast cancer, need to have their first screening ten years before their age of diagnosis.