Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to shine a light on the fight against breast cancer and to raise awareness about the importance of early detection. This month we honor those who have bravely fought against breast cancer and continue our search for a cure.
According to data from the Susan G. Komen Foundation, it is estimated there will be 310,720 new cases of invasive breast cancer among women in the United States in 2024. An estimated 42,250 women will lose their battle with breast cancer in the U.S. this year.
Effective in January 2020, Public Act 101-0580 requires both private insurance and Medicaid to cover preventative measures to detect breast cancer. Mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRIs are covered when deemed medically necessary by a physician, advanced practice nurse, or physician assistant. In addition, Public Act 103-0325, which took effect this year, ensures treatment and coverage for medically necessary proton beam therapy in the treatment of cancer.
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, upwards of ten thousand women in Illinois are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Additionally, this spring, the United States Preventive Services Task Force issued a final recommendation that women get screened every other year starting at age 40 rather than 50. With these new laws and recommendations, early detection and treatment can help save lives.
Screening tests are used to find breast cancer before it causes any warning signs or symptoms. Screening tests can find breast cancer early when the chances of survival are highest.
Contact your doctor or healthcare provider to schedule a screening.
For more information and resources about breast cancer, please visit the Illinois Department of Public Health website at dph.illinois.gov.