Prairie State Wire

At the beginning of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) are emphasizing the importance of early detection in combating breast cancer. The Governor has proclaimed October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and designated October 18 as Mammography Day in Illinois.

The Illinois Lottery contributes to breast cancer efforts by directing proceeds from Carolyn Adams Ticket for the Cure instant tickets towards education, awareness, and research.

Governor Pritzker stated, “More than 11,000 Illinois women are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year and one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.” He stressed the significance of early detection and highlighted that the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program provides free mammograms for those uninsured or underinsured.

Regular mammograms can detect breast cancer at an early stage when treatment is more effective. IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra shared a personal connection to the issue, stating, “Breast cancer is a very personal issue to me, as it has affected multiple members of my family.” He urged residents to schedule comprehensive exams and consult doctors about screenings.

Public health officials highlight that breast cancer affects not only women but also men, non-binary individuals, and trans people. It is crucial for everyone to understand their risk by consulting healthcare providers. Data shows disparities in outcomes, with more black women dying from breast cancer than any other racial or ethnic group.

Statistics indicate that breast cancer is a leading cause of death among women aged 20 to 59. One in eight U.S. women will face a diagnosis during their lifetime, with a new case occurring every two minutes nationwide. In Illinois alone, around 11,000 cases are diagnosed annually.

Risk factors include older age, family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and dense breasts which may obscure small cancers on mammograms. Women are advised to discuss these risks with healthcare providers.

Lifestyle choices like physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol can influence some risk factors. Later this month, IDPH will release a podcast episode on breast cancer covering risk factors and preventive measures.

For those without insurance or adequate coverage, IDPH's Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP) offers free screenings and assistance with treatment options. To enroll in IBCCP or inquire about eligibility requirements and processes, individuals can contact the Women’s Health Line at 888-522-1282 (TTY: 800-547-0466).

Since its inception in 1995, IBCCP has conducted over 822,000 screenings for approximately 367,000 women. In fiscal year 2024 alone, there were 16,159 breast cancer screenings conducted through the program.

Women interested in accessing these services can also reach out directly to local IBCCP agencies to arrange appointments.