SHREVEPORT, La. – Ochsner LSU Health will host its annual VIPink event to educate women about breast cancer, the importance of early detection and the latest treatment options. This year's lunch and learn will take place on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport – St. Mary Medical Center, 911 Margaret Place, Shreveport.. The luncheon is free and open to the public. Registration for the event is required. 

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women. Early detection through regular screenings and awareness of personal risk factors can play a critical role in improving outcomes.  

The event will feature an engaging discussion featuring Sindhu Priya Devarashetty, MD, breast medical oncologist and director of the High-Risk Breast & Hereditary Cancer Clinic at Ochsner LSU Health. Her presentation, "Beyond the Pink Ribbon: Know Your Risk, Know Your Options," will focus on breast cancer awareness, risk assessment, screening recommendations and options available to patients.  

"Breast cancer awareness goes beyond a single month or a single screening. Understanding your personal risk, knowing when to begin screening and recognizing the resources available to you can empower individuals to take charge of their breast health," said Dr. Devarashetty. "Our goal is to provide practical information that helps people make informed decisions and seek care early when it can make the greatest difference." 

In addition to the educational program, attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about breast health resources and survivorship. Event organizers are also planning breast cancer screenings earlier in the day and wellness activities for participants.  

VIPink Lunch & Learn 

Saturday, Oct. 24, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 

Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport - St. Mary Medical Center, Community Center 

911 Margaret Place, Shreveport, LA 71101 

To register for VIPink, visit here. For additional questions, email Bonnie Hughes at bonnie.hughes@ochsnerlsuhs.org. To schedule a mammogram at Ochsner LSU Health, call 318-626-1540 or visit ochsnerlsuhs.org/mammogram to learn more. 

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ABOUT OCHSNER LSU HEALTH  

The Ochsner LSU Health System of North Louisiana (Ochsner LSU Health) is a partnership between Ochsner Health, the largest health system in the state of Louisiana, and LSU Health Shreveport. Ochsner LSU Health provides healthcare to more than 162,000 patients across North Louisiana. With numerous convenient locations, Ochsner LSU Health includes three acute care hospitals, multiple outpatient facilities and clinics across Shreveport, Bossier and Monroe. The system has more than 4,200 employees that work alongside the Ochsner LSU Health Physician Group of 950 physicians and residents in more than 75 specialties and subspecialties.