Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Release Date:           Immediate Release                        End Date:  September 30, 2008

Contact Person:        Dianna LaBonte, B.S.N., R.N.                           

Phone:                        (810) 257-4571

RE:                              Breast and Cervical Cancer Awareness and Screening

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among Michigan women.  In 2004, 276 women in Genesee County were diagnosed with breast cancer and 71 Genesee County women died of the disease.   Early detection is key to survival.  With regular screenings, breast cancer is more likely to be detected at an early stage, when it is most treatable.

Mammograms can detect cancer two years before a lump can be felt. The Michigan Cancer Consortium, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH), and the Genesee County Health Department recommend yearly clinical breast exams and mammograms for women 40 and over.  In addition, all women age 20 and over should perform monthly breast self exams.

Access to a life-saving test is simply a phone call away.  The Genesee County Health Department’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (BCCCP) offers a FREE clinical breast exam, pelvic exam, mammogram, and Pap smear to women 40 and over who qualify.  The program may also assist financially with diagnostic procedures if an abnormality is detected.  If a woman is currently enrolled in the Breast and Cervical program and is diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer, Medicaid may be provided to assist with treatment.

BCCCP is an ongoing program for women 40 and over who are uninsured, underinsured and income qualified.  For example, a one person household with an annual income of $26,000.00 is income qualified.  This program is available to residents of all counties and accepts GHP, Straight Medicaid, and Medicare part A only.  Women who enroll and are screened through the Genesee County Health Department’s BCCCP during the month of August and September will have their name entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $40.00 Target gift card.

For more information or to schedule an appointment for this life saving screening, please contact the Genesee County Health Department at (810) 237-4545.

###END##