Southern Utah faces low mammogram screening rates despite breast cancer being the leading cause of cancer-related deaths for women in Utah, according to a report published October 14, 2026.
Cheryl Bellomo, a registered nurse at the Sandra L. Maxwell Cancer Center at Intermountain Health Cedar City Hospital, noted during an interview on the KSUB Big Picture Morning Show that both Utah and southern Utah rank extremely low in the number of annual mammograms women receive.
Bellomo stated that misconceptions regarding family history may cause women to delay screenings, noting that one in eight women will develop breast cancer. The cancer center is also observing an increase in diagnoses among younger women with careers and families.
To assist with early detection, Bellomo encourages women to perform monthly breast self-examinations and consult healthcare providers if they notice unusual signs. Such signs may include changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling, an inverted nipple, unusual nipple discharge, or lumps in the breast or underarm.
The Sandra L. Maxwell Cancer Center utilizes nurse navigation to help patients and families manage the complexities of cancer treatment. This specialized role serves as a clinical guide and coordinator, connecting patients with members of the oncology team, including physicians, radiology, and pathology.
Nurse navigators help patients overcome obstacles such as caregiver support, transportation, or a lack of insurance. Bellomo, who has worked in the field for 19 years, stated that expediting this course can lead to better clinical outcomes for individuals.
The concept of nurse navigation originated in the 1980s in Harlem, New York. It was developed after breast surgeon Dr. Harold Freeman observed that many underserved patients were not reaching his operating table until their cancer had advanced to stage three or stage four.
For additional information regarding cancer services, Bellomo recommended consulting the American Cancer Society or Intermountain Health.
