October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death, and in Jessamine County, there were 32 breast cancer related deaths from 2010 to 2014 according to the Kentucky Cancer Registry. Additionally, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. In fact, one in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

The American Cancer Society estimates 252,710 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed during 2017. Between the ages of 60 and 84, breast cancer incidence rates are markedly higher in white women than black women. However, black women have a higher incidence rate before age 45, and are more likely to die from breast cancer at every age.

When it comes to breast cancer survival rates, early detection is critical. The five-year survival rate for breast cancer detected and diagnosed before it is able to be felt is 99 percent.

It is important to educate both men and women about the importance of early detection, and encourage them to have critical conversations about appropriate screenings with their healthcare provider.

To help fight breast cancer, the Jessamine County Health Department offers low to no-cost breast cancer screenings to Jessamine County residents with no insurance.  Our patients may receive a physical exam, which includes a breast exam and mammogram referral (if needed). 

Call 859-885-4149 or visit www.jessaminehealth.org for more information.