Health Department Urges Breast Cancer Screenings

medical54-46
medical54-46

The Berrien County Health Department is urging women over the age of 40 to get screened for breast cancer this October, with it being Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Spokesperson Gillian Conrad tells us one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer.

“In the state of Michigan, breast cancer is actually the most commonly-diagnosed cancer, and it is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among Michigan women,” Conrad said.

Conrad says a state program called the Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program enables the local health department to provide screenings. It’s aimed at those in need.

“For women who are over the age of 40 and meet those income requirements, you could still have insurance and meet the requirements if your income is of a certain level, but if you’re uninsured, you can become eligible for the program as well.”

Conrad says women should know their family health histories. She also notes risk factors for breast cancer include weight, alcohol use, and smoking. Anyone who wants to learn about getting screened can contact the Berrien County Health Department.