At Celebrating Life Community Health Center, October is a time to double down on prevention. This month, we’re focusing on four key ways you can take charge of your health — and we’re here to support you every step of the way: breast cancer awareness and screening, tobacco screening, HIV screening, and HIV linkage to care.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, but when it’s found early, treatment is often more effective. During October, we join health organizations nationwide in raising awareness about risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of regular screening.
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Talk to your provider about when to start breast cancer screening and how often to have it.
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Mammograms remain the best tool for early detection. While we don’t perform mammograms on-site at CLCHC, our team can refer you to trusted facilities nearby.
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If you notice any new lumps, skin changes, or nipple discharge, don’t wait to get checked — early evaluation matters.
Why Tobacco Screening Matters
Tobacco use — whether smoking, vaping, or chewing — is one of the leading causes of preventable disease. It can damage your heart, lungs, and immune system, and increases your risk for cancer. That’s why we make tobacco screening a routine part of your visit.
Our screenings are simple conversations with your healthcare team. If you’re currently using tobacco, we’ll offer practical resources and support tailored to your needs. This might include counseling, nicotine-replacement therapy, quit-smoking programs, or referrals to trusted partners in the community. Quitting isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone — and even small steps can make a huge difference for your long-term health and quality of life.
HIV Screening Saves Lives
Knowing your HIV status is powerful. HIV testing is quick, confidential, and recommended for everyone at least once as part of routine medical care. Early detection means early treatment, which leads to better health outcomes and helps prevent transmission to others.
Our staff creates a judgment-free space where you can feel comfortable asking questions, getting tested, and understanding your results. If you’ve never been screened for HIV, or if it’s been more than a year, October is a great time to make it happen.
What “Linkage to Care” Means
If a test shows you’re living with HIV, our commitment to you doesn’t end with the result. “Linkage to care” means we immediately connect you to comprehensive HIV-specialty services — including medical treatment, lab monitoring, case management, and supportive resources. Starting care early not only improves your own health but also helps you stay undetectable, which means you cannot pass HIV to your sexual partners.
Our team works with trusted local partners to make sure you’re seen quickly and that your care plan fits your life. We’ll walk with you through the first appointments and make sure you have what you need — from medication access to emotional support.
Taking the Next Step
Preventive screenings like these save lives. They’re part of the holistic care we provide for every patient, regardless of income or background. If you’re due for a breast cancer, tobacco, or HIV screening — or you’re ready to take action on quitting tobacco or getting linked to HIV care — we’re here to help.
You can:
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Ask at your next visit to be screened for tobacco use and HIV and to get a referral for a mammogram.
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Call us at (949) 866-3600 to schedule a confidential appointment.
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Visit our online scheduler to book an appointment online.
All screenings are confidential, judgment-free, and part of our commitment to whole-person care. Taking that first step is simple, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
