Breast Cancer Screening Expanded By New Law

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women.  Only lung cancer causes more deaths than breast cancer. 

Women can dramatically lower their risk for breast cancer – and cervical cancer – with early screening. As of July, that life-saving screening will be within reach for women who currently may not be able to afford it. 

Passed by the General Assembly late last year, the Pennsylvania Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Screening Act instructs the state Department of Health to provide at least annual screening mammograms, clinical breast exams, pap smears and pelvic exams for eligible women between the ages of 40 and 49. (The Commonwealth already offers these services to uninsured and underinsured women ages 50-64.) 

Women whose family income does not exceed 250% of the federal poverty level with no other access to health insurance coverage are eligible for screening under the program.  (The annual income limits are $24,500 for a family of one; $33,000 for a family of two; $41,500 for a family of three and $50,000 for a family of four.) 

According to the Centers for Disease Control, early detection of breast and cervical cancers saves lives, and timely mammography screening among women aged 40 years or older could reduce breast cancer mortality by approximately 16 percent compared with women who are not screened. 

Studies have shown that the five-year survival rate for breast cancer is 96% if it is detected early, but declines to 21% in later stages. The survival rate for cervical cancer in its earliest stage is almost 100%. 

Every woman, regardless of income, should take charge of their health and do what it takes lower their risk for breast and cervical cancers. That means self breast examinations, clinical breast examinations, and mammograms beginning at age 40.  Steps for lowering the risk of cervical cancer include regular pelvic examinations and pap tests. 

It's certainly true that we are bombarded with health warnings and advice on a daily basis. It's not easy to find the facts in the rhetoric; to separate the important information from the more breathless announcements. But with breast and cervical cancer, the facts are clear.

Regular screening and early detection can and do save lives. And now, there is no reason that income should be a factor. 

I encourage women to talk to their doctor about this, and take advantage of the new Pennsylvania Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Screening program. You've probably spent much of your life taking care of others in your family. This is something you can do for yourself. Your loved ones would be grateful. 

As always, if you have any questions on this or any other state government matter, please do not hesitate to contact my office directly at (814) 453-2515.