The Southeast Health District joins communities across Georgia in recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the United States, with an estimated 264,000 new cases identified every year. Early screening and detection methods commonly help providers identify breast cancer at earlier, more treatable stages.
Through the Georgia Department of Public Health, the Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP) is a valuable community asset to women to assist in the diagnosis of cervical and breast cancers in the earliest stages. The program offers clinical breast exams, pelvic exams, pap smears, and mammogram referrals to eligible women who are Georgia residents.
“Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women in the United States, so early detection is critical,” said Pam Carter, Women’s Health Coordinator for the Southeast Health District. Carter continued, “We want women in our community to have everything they need to be as healthy as possible and to get the treatment they need.”
Women who are diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer through the program, or referred by a physician, may be eligible for treatment through the Women’s Health Medicaid program. For more detailed information about the Georgia BCCP program and eligibility requirements, please visit https://dph.georgia.gov/BCCP or call 1 (855) 473-4374.
Early detection saves lives! Let’s unite this October to raise awareness, support one another, and ensure that all women in our community have access to life-saving screenings and care.