10/18/2019
DPH recognizes Mammography Day as Part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Free or Reduced Cost Breast Cancer Screenings Are Available For Women Who Qualify
The Department of Public Health (DPH) encourages women to schedule their annual mammogram as part of National Mammography Day which is today, October 18th as part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) most recent data, Connecticut in 2016 reported 3,260 new cases of breast cancer and 465 breast cancer deaths. These numbers are concerning with Connecticut’s incidence rate for breast cancer being 139 new reported case per every 100,000 residents according to the CDC data.
“Mammography screening is vital for all women, irrespective of their race or ethnicity,” said Connecticut DPH Commissioner Renée Coleman-Mitchell. “Annual breast cancer screening including mammograms along with monthly breast self-exams is critical to detecting any cancerous growth as early as possible so we can save the most number of lives!”
Mammogram screenings are x-ray exams used to detect breast cancer in women who may not show or be aware of breast cancer symptoms. The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all women ages 50 to 74 to have a mammogram screening every two years. Women ages 40 to 49 years should discuss with their health care provider whether and how often they should get screened. The early breast cancer is detected the greater likelihood of survival.
Reduced or no-cost screenings are available for Connecticut women who qualify through DPH’s Early Detection and Prevention Program (CEDPP). A full list of locations and services are found on the DPH’s CEDPP webpage or you can call (860) 509-7804. The CEDPP program serves 4,400 women every year and has helped over 70,000 women visit doctors, receive mammograms, pap and HPV tests, and cardiovascular screenings.
National Mammography Day is recognized across the country on the third Friday of each October to increase breast cancer awareness and promote mammogram screenings for the early detection of breast cancer.