By: Senator Tracy Pennycuick
“It’s time to think pink” may be a little corny or maybe in bad taste for a very serious subject, but Breast Cancer Awareness month is all about AWARENESS. I recently spoke with a woman who saw some of our breast cancer educational materials and said, “oh, I’ve got to schedule my mammogram”. That’s the point. Early detection saves lives. No doubt about it. If you are found to have breast cancer, the sooner you and your physician determine what medical treatment is best for you the better.
Tragically, about 1 in 8 women in the United States will get breast cancer in their lifetime. If found early and treated most women can survive to live long and full lives.
What is important to remember is that breast cancer does not discriminate. It can impact young women, older women, mothers, daughters, sisters, and even men. That’s why conversations during October matter so much—they remind families to encourage their loved ones to get screened, and they reinforce the message that no one should put off care or ignore warning signs.
Breast cancer is one of the most common kinds of cancer in women. The good news is that a mammogram, the screening test for breast cancer, can diagnose the disease early when it is most beatable.
I am proud to again partner with the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition (PBCC) and our regional YMCAs to provide information at Y facilities throughout the southeast in and around my district. Some YMCAs have developed small group cancer survivorship programs for those who are living with, through or beyond cancer. We are kicking off a month-long campaign to raise awareness and provide information about knowing your risks and early detection. Information is available at the YMCAs the entire month of October.
We’re encouraging all Pennsylvanians to take a look at their risk of developing hereditary cancers like breast cancer. High-risk factors can include:
- family history of breast cancer
- personal history of breast cancer
- dense breast tissue
- BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutation
The PBCC has contributed more than $5.5 million to breast cancer research right here in Pennsylvania and works to emphasize the importance of early detection. Over 46,000 uninsured and underinsured women have received free mammograms thanks to the efforts of PBCC.
I encourage anyone with any questions or concerns to visit the PBCC website for very helpful information about such issues as: where to get a mammogram, how to get a ride to treatment, what to do if you don’t have insurance, and information about paying for prescription medicines, and so much more.
And if you’re at increased risk, Act 1 of 2023 passed by the Pennsylvania legislature provides no-cost breast MRI, ultrasound, genetic testing, and genetic counseling for individuals insured under state law.
Schedule your test today.
PA Senator Tracy Pennycuick represents the 24th Senate district which includes parts of Berks and Montgomery counties.
CONTACT: Lidia Di Fiore (215) 541-2388