State Department of Health Highlights the Importance of Routine Screenings, Early Detection, and Increasing Access to Diagnostics and Care
Free Screenings Available by Calling 1-866-442-CANCER (2262)
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that a dozen state landmarks will be illuminated pink this evening, October 16, in honor of breast cancer awareness month. The lighting is aimed at recognizing the importance of routine screenings and early detection to find breast cancer -still the most frequently diagnosed cancer in New York -at an earlier stage and when treatment works best.
"On Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we honor those we have lost to this tragic disease, and all the brave New Yorkers still battling it," Governor Hochul said. "By illuminating these landmarks in pink, we recognize the advancements that have been made, the work must still be done, and the unwavering support we offer to the heroic survivors. This October, I encourage all New Yorkers to learn about the importance of self-checks and routine mammograms -simple steps we can take to fight this insidious disease."
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, with an estimated one in eight developing the disease in their lifetime. More than 16,800 women are diagnosed and about 2,500 are killed by breast cancer annually in New York, according to statistics compiled by the state Department of Health; about 160 men are also diagnosed with this disease each year.
New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett said, "The pain of losing a loved one to cancer is real for too many New Yorkers. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we remember those we lost and honor the fighters and survivors. The Department of Health will continue to build a foundation of equitable access to screenings, early intervention, and quality care through continued investment, robust policy, and community-based partnerships."
Landmarks and bridges that will be illuminated include:
- One World Trade Center
- Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
- Kosciuszko Bridge
- The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
- State Education Building
- Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
- Empire State Plaza
- State Fairgrounds - Main Gate & Expo Center
- Niagara Falls
- The "Franklin D. Roosevelt" Mid-Hudson Bridge
- Albany International Airport Gateway
- The Lake Placid Olympic Center
- Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
Far too often, women are unable to get critical early intervention because they lack insurance: About two thirds of women ages 50 to 74 and lacking health insurance were screened in 2020, according to a new report released by the New York State Department of Health. In comparison, about 83 percent of women with health insurance got screened.
Moreover, breast cancer takes a disproportionate toll on women of color. While non-Hispanic Caucasian women have the highest prevalence of breast cancer, non-Hispanic Black women have the highest fatality rates, highlighting the gaping racial disparity in health outcomes.
New York State continues to take nation-leading steps to bridge disparities in breast cancer outcomes and increase access to diagnostics and treatment. Earlier this month, a new funding opportunity was released to award state grants to 21 organizations to run the New York State Cancer Services Program in their communities. The grantees will cover every county and borough in New York and will focus their efforts on individuals who lack access to services and bear a disproportionate burden of cancer, including those without insurance, to reduce health disparities; more information about this funding opportunity is posted on the New York State Grants Gateway.
Last week, Governor Hochul signed legislationto aid breast cancer survivors to ensure those who choose to have chest reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy or partial mastectomy have proper insurance coverage.
The most important action women and New Yorkers can take is to have routine breast cancer screenings. To reduce the risk of getting breast cancer, the State Department of Health reminds New Yorkers to:
- Be aware of family histories and discuss concerns with a health care provider.
- Discuss the use of hormone replacement therapy with a health care provider.
- Studies have shown that breastfeeding for longer periods of time lowers the risk of getting breast cancer.
- Stay at a healthy weight.
- Exercise regularly.
- Discuss the risks and benefits of medical imaging, such as CT scans, with a health care provider to avoid unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation.
New Yorkers should talk to a health care provider about getting a mammogram. Those lacking insurance or a health care provider may still be able to get screened: Call the New York State Cancer Services Program at 1-866-442-CANCER (2262) to find a nearby location.
The New York State Cancer Services Program offers free breast cancer screening for eligible, uninsured New York residents in every county and borough. The call is free, and operators are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. New Yorkers can also visit our Community Programs List to find a local program by county or borough and call directly.
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