MIAMI, FL — In recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, the Florida Department of Health, Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program in Miami-Dade County encourages all women to receive regular breast exams and mammogram screenings to promote early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

“Early detection is the best way to find breast cancer early, when treatment is more effective.  We encourage all women to schedule their mammograms, since early detection saves lives,” said Yesenia Villalta, DNP, MSN, APRN, Health Officer/Administrator of the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States.²The American Cancer Society estimates nearly 21,000 new cases will be diagnosed in Florida this year alone.  In 2022, it is estimated that 3,150 women in Florida will die from breast cancer.¹

Over the past ten years, breast cancer mortality rates in Florida have decreased by 14.8%³.  Early detection of any cancer is critical to supporting a long and healthy life. Breast cancer is no exception and getting routine screenings is vital to your health.  Women are urged to talk to their health care provider about possible individual risk factors and the frequency of mammograms, as well as complete any recommended mammogram screenings.

The Florida Department of Health provides access to free or low-cost breast cancer screenings statewide to women who are uninsured or underinsured, have a low income, and meet the program eligibility requirements. For more information about the Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program please visit MakeTimeForScreenTime.com.  For more information regarding free mammogram screenings, please call 305-470-5634

Additionally, visit Florida Cancer Connect, a centralized resource hub for cancer patients, caregivers, and loved ones. Florida Cancer Connect provides tools to access a centralized resource of trusted information to help you and your family make informed decisions when it matters most.

¹U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Cancer Prevention and Control. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/statistics/index.htm. (accessed 31 August 2022).

² American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2022. (https://cancerstatisticscenter.cancer.org/#!/state/Florida)

³ Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics. (Deaths From Breast Cancer Ten Year Report - Florida Health CHARTS | CHARTS (flhealthcharts.gov))