Breast cancer

Early Detection Saves Lives

Each year, more than 7,000 Ohio women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and more than 2,000 deaths from the disease are reported. Early detection, usually from monthly self-breast exams, clinical breast examinations, and the use of mammography, can greatly increase the chances of surviving breast cancer. The survival rate is 97 percent when localized breast cancer is detected at an early stage.

"Every woman age 40 and older should have a mammogram each year, along with a clinical breast exam performed by a health care professional. Women 20-39 years old should have a clinical breast exam every three years -- and all women should begin performing monthly self-exams at age 20," says J. Nick Baird, M.D., state health director.

For those women who qualify financially, the Ohio Department of Health offers referrals for mammography and clinical exams through its Breast and Cervical Cancer Project at more than 600 providers located throughout the state. (link to BCCP site on ODH Web page)

Many insurance providers include coverage for screening mammograms and women with Medicare Part B can receive a screening mammogram each year without reaching the deductible amount first.

Anyone seeking more information about breast cancer can contact the American Cancer Society (toll-free) at 1-888-ACS-OHIO (1-888-227-6446) or the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER.

Last Updated: 09/29/2000