The mammogram, an X-ray of the breast, is the best way to find breast cancer early. Finding breast cancer early makes it easier to treat and finds it before the cancer is big enough to feel or cause symptoms, Having regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer.

Up until 2024 the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended that women who are 50 to 74 years old and are at average risk for breast cancer get a mammogram every two years with women who are 40 to 49 years old should talk to their doctor about when to start and how often to get a mammogram. Women should weigh the benefits and risks of screening tests when deciding whether to begin getting mammograms before age 50.

In 2024 the USPSTF updated these recommendations to now state that women aged 40 to 74 years should get a mammogram every two years. This was due to the idea that mammograms are very good at catching breast cancer early on and pose little to no risk to the woman getting screened. Once 2024 data is available, this measure will change accordingly to show this updated recommendation. 

There are numerous strategies for increasing breast cancer screening. Some recommendations include:

• Using patient navigators, also called system navigators, to help guide patients through medical, insurance and social support systems.
• Providing financial incentives, such as payments or vouchers, for preventive care.
• Media campaigns to increase awareness.
• Client reminders.
• Cost reduction.
• Removal of barriers in transportation and language.

The Indiana Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP) is the Indiana implementation of the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). The BCCP provides access to breast and cervical cancer screenings, diagnostic testing, and treatment for underserved and underinsured women who qualify for services.

The NBCCEDP is the first and only national cancer screening program in the United States. The NBCCEDP functions through cooperative agreements with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and territorial health departments, tribes, and organizations. The NBCCEDP currently serves women in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, five territories, and twelve tribes.

The BCCP receives funds from both the NBCCEDP and from the State of Indiana and serves between 3,000 and 4,000 women annually.

Cancer Screenings

Through the BCCP, female Indiana residents may qualify for free breast and cervical cancer screenings and diagnostic tests. Services provided include

• Colposcopies (with or without biopsies)
• Liquid-based cytology tests
• High risk panel HPV testing
• Office visits
• Pelvic exams/tests
• Clinical breast exams (CBEs)
• Mammograms (screening and diagnostic)
• Diagnostic breast ultrasounds
• Breast biopsies
• Consultations

Cancer Treatment

As of 2009, the BCCP is capable of qualifying women diagnosed with breast and cervical cancer for MA-12 (Indiana Medicaid) through its Option 3. The MA-12 remains active during cancer treatment and terminates at its conclusion. Over 100 women received MA-12 through Option 3 in its first year alone.

https://www.cdc.gov/brfss/brfssprevalence/