HEALTH DEPARTMENT PROMOTES EARLY DETECTION AND TREATMENT TO FIGHT BREAST CANCER

[Monroe County, FL] — In recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, the Florida Department of Health in Monroe encourages all women to receive regular screenings to promote early detection and treatment of breast cancer. Important advances have been made through increased awareness, breast cancer screenings and better treatments. 

According to the CDC, not counting some kinds of skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, no matter a person’s race or ethnicity. The American Cancer Society estimates 19,130 new cases are expected in Florida this year alone. In 2018, 2,955 women in Florida and 5 in Monroe County died from Female Breast Cancer. 

What should women do? Make “No excuses, ladies.” Women should talk to their health care provider about their individual risk factors and the frequency of receiving mammograms, as well as complete any recommended mammogram screenings. Additionally, women can lower their risk as follows:

  • Get and stay at a healthy weight
  • Be physically active
  • Limit or avoid alcohol
  • Choose to breast-feed
  • Quit smoking and or vaping

The Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (FCCEDP) provides access to the breast and cervical cancer screenings doctors recommend. The screenings are free or low cost for those who meet the program eligibility requirements. To see if you qualify, call any of the following: 

  • Key West: Womankind 305-294-4004
  • Marathon: CHI Marathon Health Center: 305-743-4000 x 7106

In addition to those listed above, there are other providers offering mammograms at reduced cost this month in October: 

  • Tavernier: Mariner’s Hospital: 786-573-6000 or visit www.baptisthealth.net/breasthealth.  Referral required; if you do not have a referring physician call 786-573-6008 to receive one. 
  • Key West: Lower Keys Medical Center is offering 3D mammograms and has extended weekend hours in October. Visit www.mdsave.com or call 844-357-4500.
  • Key West: Mammography of Key West: 305-395-1292
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