Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH) is recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to the lives affected by breast cancer and to the importance of early screening for breast cancer. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. Nearly 290,000 new cases of breast cancer were reported among females in the United States in 2023. In North Dakota, about 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. Women’s Way, North Dakota’s breast and cervical cancer early detection program, supports and encourages early screening and is available to serve women in all 53 counties in North Dakota.
Louisa Bergman, FCPH Women’s Way coordinator, says, “Regular screening mammograms are the best method available to detect breast cancer early, when it is most treatable. Mammograms can find cancer nearly two years before a lump can be felt. Women’s Way can help by providing free screening services for women who meet our program guidelines.”
Women’s Way is available to women who meet the eligibility criteria:
• North Dakota resident
• Ages 40 - 64
• Ages 21 - 39, have breast symptoms (lump) or are at high risk for breast cancer, are due for a Pap test, or need breast or cervical diagnostic procedures
• Do not have insurance
• Have insurance that does not cover mammograms and/or Pap tests or cannot afford to pay the deductible and/or co-payments
• Meet income guidelines
While there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, lifestyle choices such as limiting alcohol consumption, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and eating a balanced diet may reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Staying healthy throughout life can lower the risk of developing cancer and improve the chances of surviving cancer if it occurs. Women are encouraged to be familiar with their family history and personal breast health, stay up to date on their screenings and consult a healthcare provider if changes like a new lump or skin change occur.
Visit the FCPH Women’s Way website to learn more: FargoCassPublicHealth.com/WomensWay.