Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

PRESS RELEASE

Date:  April 22, 2008

Release Date:  May 1, 2008                           End Date:  May 31, 2008

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

                Public Health Nurse Coordinator

Phone:  (810) 257-4571

Re:  Breast Cancer Awareness

What better way to celebrate Mother’s Day in May than by saving her life through breast cancer screening? Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in Michigan.  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 self breast exams.

Access to this life-saving gift 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 some diagnostic procedures if an abnormality is detected.  If breast or cervical cancer is diagnosed, BCCCP clients may be enrolled in Medicaid to help with treatment. 

Women 40 and over that are uninsured/ underinsured and income qualified (e.g., a one person annual household income of $26,000.00 is income qualified) are eligible for BCCCP.  This program is available to residents of all counties and accepts GHP, Straight Medicaid and Medicare part A only.  During the month of May, women who enroll and are screened through the Genesee County Health Department’s BCCCP will have their name entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $40.00 Target gift card.  

To schedule an appointment for this life saving screening, please contact the Genesee County Health Department at (810) 237-4545.  For more information, please call the same telephone number or visit us on the web at www.gchd.us.