October 25, 2002

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 200,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Because early detection is a key factor in fighting this ominous statistic, the MGH has just established a new center focused on rapid diagnosis and treatment.

On Oct. 16, the MGH dedicated its new Avon Foundation Comprehensive Breast Evaluation Center, named in recognition of support from the Avon Foundation. Guests were invited to a special reception and tour of the new center, which combines breast imaging and surgical screening and offers women the option of addressing potential problems immediately. The center features the most advanced imaging techniques, coupled with a team of radiologists, surgeons, pathologists and nurses who are experts in breast examination. The full range of services in the center include routine mammography screenings, ultrasound exams, biopsies, surgical screenings and consultations.

From left, Cheryl Coates of Avon Products, Inc. toured the center with Chabner and Kopans.

Participating in the celebration were Marydale DeBor, of the Avon Foundation, and Cheryl Coates, Susan Moran and Wendy Pirro, of Avon Products, Inc. Among the MGH leadership represented were Edward P. Lawrence, chair of the MGH Board of Trustees; Bruce A. Chabner, MD, clinical director of the MGH Cancer Center and principal investigator of the Avon-MGH Breast Care Initiative; Kevin S. Hughes, MD, and Daniel B. Kopans, MD, co-directors of the Avon Center; and James J. Mongan, MD, president of the MGH. Kasey Kaufman, WBZ-TV news anchor, served as mistress of ceremonies.

For more information about the center, call (617) 726-9200.