DPH Encourages Screenings During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Oct. 15, 2024

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Each October, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) joins organizations across the nation in recognizing National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This year, DPH’s Cancer Programs are focusing on the life-saving role of screenings and early detection.  

Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal breast cells grow out of control and form tumors. There are certain factors that can increase the risk for breast cancer, including a family history of breast cancer, exposure to harmful chemicals, hormones and obesity. Even though breast cancer is not always preventable, early detection can improve health outcomes.  

“Screenings save lives, yet so many women don’t have a mammogram performed for various reasons,” said Selena Lowery, director of DPH’s Best Chance Network. “They might be busy, scared, or don’t know it is important, but the screening is a straightforward process, and those 20 minutes could save your life.” 

The South Carolina Cancer Registry estimates that close to 750 women will die in 2024 due to breast cancer.  

Regular breast cancer screenings, mammograms, along with monthly self-breast exams can help women identify breast cancer at an early stage when treatment is most likely to be successful. However, only a medical professional can diagnose breast cancer. 

Mammograms are covered by most major insurance plans. DPH’s breast and cervical cancer early detection program, the Best Chance Network, helps women get access to those mammograms for free when they meet certain eligibility criteria.  

“My advice to any woman who has questions about getting a mammogram is to visit your local breast health center to get more comfortable with the process prior to having the screening,” Lowery said. “Our program can help you find local a screening provider in your local area.” 

DPH and partner organizations across the state offer cervical and mammogram screenings throughout the year. For a full list of screening events, visit DPH’s Best Chance Network webpage.  

To learn more about breast cancer, risk factors, and screening, visit the DPH website.  

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