DOH-MANATEE ENCOURAGES ROUTINE SCREENINGS FOR BREAST CANCER 

Contact:
Christopher Tittel, Communication Director, DOH-Manatee
Christopher.Tittel@FLHealth.gov
(941) 720-6145

Bradenton, Fla. — In recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Florida Department of Health in Manatee County (DOH-Manatee) and the Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program encourage all women to receive regular breast exams and mammogram screenings to promote early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

“Early detection is key to saving lives,” said DOH-Manatee Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Bencie. “The sooner that breast cancer is detected, the sooner treatment can begin.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States. The 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.

Over the past ten years, breast cancer mortality rates in Florida have decreased by 14.8 percent.  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.

DOH-Manatee provides access to free or low-cost breast cancer screenings statewide to women who are uninsured or underinsured, have 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.

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.

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About the Florida Department of Health

The Florida Department of Health, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts. To learn about resources in your area, contact your county health department. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.