A message from the Tammy Walker Cancer Center:
Every October we celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month to increase awareness of the importance of breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment.
Did you know that breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in the United States after skin cancer? Some things you can do to lower your risk of breast cancer according to the CDC include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, don’t drink alcohol or limit alcoholic drinks, and if you have a family history of breast cancer or inherited changes in your BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, talk to your doctor about other ways to lower your risk.
The American Cancer Society recommends that women have the option to start screening with a mammogram at age 40. Talk to your health care provider to determine whether screening is right for you.
For women who are uninsured or who can’t afford screening, assistance is available. The Early Detection Works program serves Kansans who do not have health insurance and meet certain age and income guidelines. Services provided by Early Detection Works may include free: breast cancer screenings, cervical cancer screenings, follow-up tests to find out if treatment is needed, and help finding resources for treatment. For more information on the Early Detection Works call toll free 1-877-277-1368 or visit their website at https://www.kdheks.gov/edw/.