(Oct. 2015) It is estimated that one in eight women will develop breast cancer during her life. Breast cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in New York State. Each year in New York, nearly 15,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer and about 2,700 women die from the disease. These women are our wives, mothers, sisters, and friends.
In recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Phyllis Ellis, Director of the Oneida County Health Department is urging all women to talk to their health provider about breast cancer screening and their personal risk for the disease.
Women are encouraged to talk to their health care providers about when and how often they should have screening mammograms. Any woman, or man, who has symptoms or changes in their breasts, should schedule an appointment with their health provider immediately. While very rare, it is possible for men to also be diagnosed with breast cancer.
Regularly scheduled breast cancer screening increases the chances that cancer is found in its earliest stages.
“Great advances have been made in early detection and treatment of breast cancer, and many women diagnosed with the disease are living long, healthy lives,” Ellis said.
Uninsured women who are 40 years of age and older may also be able to qualify for breast cancer screening through the New York State Cancer Services Program. Oneida County Health Department Cancer Services Program of Oneida, Herkimer and Madison Counties can be reached by contacting (315) 798-5248.