By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but a reminder to get screened helps most when women know where to go and what it may cost. In Alabama, eligible women can receive free breast cancer screening through the Alabama Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.
The state program generally serves Alabama women ages 40 to 64 who have no insurance and whose household income is at or below 250% of the federal poverty level. Women can call (334) 206-3358 or (334) 206-2976 to ask about eligibility and screening. The program also provides cervical cancer screening. alabamapublichealth.gov
A mammogram can find breast cancer before symptoms appear. For women at average risk, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends one every two years from ages 40 through 74. A woman with a strong family history, a previous breast cancer diagnosis or other risk factors should discuss her individual screening plan with a health care professional. CDC
Access matters. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that although new breast cancer rates are highest among non-Hispanic White women, death rates are highest among non-Hispanic Black women. Finding cancer early and getting timely follow-up care are essential parts of closing that gap. cdc.gov
If you are due for a mammogram, make the appointment this month. If cost or insurance has kept you from doing so, call the state program and ask what help is available. If you notice a new breast change, contact a clinician rather than waiting for a routine screening date.
Sources: Alabama Department of Public Health, Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program and program contacts; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Breast Cancer Screening and Breast Cancer Interventions.