Florida Department of Health in Nassau Observes Breast Cancer Month

10/25/22 @ 3:30 p.m. -Please see the below Press Release from the Department of Health Nassau. 

Contact: Jennifer Bothast
Jennifer.Bothast@FLHealth.gov
(904) 832-2644

[NASSAU, 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 Nassau encourages all women to receive regular breast exams and mammogram screenings to promote early detection and treatment of breast cancer. According to Dr. Danso-Odei, Nassau County Department of Health Administrator and Health Officer, “This program helps us better meet the needs of uninsured women who would otherwise not be able to afford to receive these life-saving cancer screenings.” He further explained, “physician referrals are not needed, and women aged 50-64 interested in participation should call the Health Department at 904-875-6110, option 1 to receive information and make an appointment for these services. If a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, this program will follow through with immediate entry into care. Our department promotes awareness through a variety of outreach efforts and collaborations with area churches and other community- based organizations through participation in local events and developing cooperative partnerships with community health care providers.”

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. According to FL CHARTS, the rate of breast cancer incidence was 150.9 per 100,000 females in Nassau County in 2019, which was the most recent data year available, and is much higher than the Florida state rate which was 128.0 during this same year.

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

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.

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.