State Department of Health offers affordable mammogram options

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and health experts say early detection can save lives.

The Mississippi State Department of Health is encouraging women to stay proactive with their screenings.

For those worried about the cost, free and low-cost mammograms are available across the state.

According to the Mississippi State Department of Health, more than 25 percent of women across the state do not receive regular breast cancer screenings. Breast and Cervical Cancer Program/ Comprehensive Cancer Control Program Director Amy Gibbons said, “We have medical deserts throughout the state and we know that there are barriers that prohibit women or keep women from wanting to go get a mammogram. And a lot of times it’s just fear and it is the cost. But BCCP is there to provide that for those women at no cost. So, they can go get that. And some women think, I haven’t had one in five years, 10 years. Everything seems fine. But you’ve got to get in there and get that mammogram.”

To help address those barriers, the State Department of Health’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Program offers free screenings for eligible women between the ages of 40 and 64. Officials say there are also exceptions for women ages 21 to 39 with prior approval. “There are programs out there like our program. We are statewide and we want to reimburse these providers to get you a screening. So, if you don’t have insurance, if you’re underinsured, you know, we will reimburse those providers. And if there is a diagnosis of cancer, our nurse can help get them on Medicaid so that treatment can begin. It’s expedited Medicaid, so a woman doesn’t have to wait a long period of time to start treatment because we know that that’s what’s most important.”

Although mammograms remain the best tool for early detection, health officials say self-exams can also help women stay aware of changes in their breast health.

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