Community Corner

State Rep. McAsey: Talk to the Women in Your Lives About Fighting Breast Cancer

Early screenings are available through the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program.

The following comes from the office of State Representative Emily McAsey:

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, state Rep. Emily McAsey is encouraging women to take part in efforts to increase awareness of breast cancer and the benefits of early detection.

“In October, organizations and individuals across the nation remember loved ones who have been diagnosed with breast cancer,” McAsey said. “While medical professionals continue to work toward a cure for this disease, it is important that we continue to raise awareness about early detection. Through these efforts, more women are getting tested, and more are beating cancer.”

In the United States, approximately one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, death rates due to breast cancer have steadily decreased as a result of increased awareness and early detection. However, only about 9 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer in Illinois are detected at the earliest and most curable stage.

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McAsey supported efforts to increase early detection screenings through the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP). This initiative provides free mammograms to women between the ages of 40 and 64 who are uninsured and have an income below 250 percent of the federal poverty level. This program has helped thousands of women catch and treat cancer before it is too late. To find out if you are qualified to take part in these services, please call the IBCCP information line at 888-522-1282 or visit their website at cancerscreening.illinois.gov.

“I encourage everyone to talk to the women in their lives about the simple steps they can take to win the fight against breast cancer,” McAsey said. “I will continue to support efforts that provide much-needed medical services and support to those diagnosed with this disease.”

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For more information, please contact McAsey’s full-time constituent service office at 815-372-0085.


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