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Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, overwhelmed only by lung cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 266,120 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in American women in 2018.
In addition, it is estimated that about 40,920 women will die from breast cancer this year. The good news is that breast cancer death rates have been falling since about 1989. It is thought that these decreases result from earlier detection through screenings and increased awareness.
Cervical cancer is also a health problem for women. However, if detected early in regular Pap tests, it can be prevented and is one of the most treatable cancers. HPV (human papillomavirus) is a major cause of cervical cancer and is the most common sexually transmitted infection.
About 20 million Americans currently have HPV and most do not even know it. Many times, HPV has no signs or symptoms. Some people can get rid of the virus by themselves, but if a woman fails to get rid of the virus by herself, it can lead to cancer of the cervix of the uterus.
The Hocking County Health Department and the Noble County Health Department have partnered to provide free breast and cervical health services in eight counties in the Southeastern Ohio area.
The Breast Cancer and Cervical Cancer Project (BCCP) is a high quality breast cancer and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic program, offered free of charge in the United States. State of Ohio. Eligible women will be scheduled for services with providers in their area.
Services include:
• pelvic exams
• Pap tests
• Clinical examinations of the breasts
• Mammograms
• Case management
• Diagnostic test, including biopsy and ultrasound (if necessary)
To receive services, certain criteria must be met. Women are eligible for screening and diagnosis services if they meet the following criteria:
• Living in households with incomes below 200% of the poverty line
• do not have insurance
• 21 years of age or older for Pap smears, pelvic exams and clinical breast exams
• are 50 years of age or older for mammograms
Women who have been screened for breast cancer or cervical cancer through the BCCP and who require treatment for breast or cervical cancer (or precancerous conditions) will be assisted by the BCCP staff to find community resources and may be eligible to apply to BCCP Medicaid.
For more information, call the Hocking County Health Department at 740-385-3030. To receive services or to find out if you qualify, call the Noble County Health Department at 1-800-236-6253.
Brittney Tschudy, BSH, RN, TTS Hocking County Health Department, writes a weekly column published in The Logan Daily News.
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