National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program

Program Description
The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program helps low-income, uninsured, and under-insured women gain access to lifesaving screening programs for early detection of breast cancer and cervical cancer. The program provides clinical breast examinations, mammograms, and Pap tests for eligible women who participate in the program as well as diagnostic testing for women whose screening outcome is abnormal.

The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program is currently available in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, 4 U.S. Territories, and 13 tribes and tribal organizations.

General Eligibility Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a woman aged 40 -- 64 for breast cancer screening services or a woman aged 18 - 64 for cervical cancer screening services AND your financial situation must qualify as low income and you must be uninsured or underinsured. Other qualifications may apply.

How to Apply
To apply to participate in the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, or to get more information on the program, contact a participating clinic near you or call (toll free) 1-800-CDC-INFO.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Each year, Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us that breast cancer continues to be one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States. You are never too young to start screening for breast cancer. Regular monthly breast self-exams and yearly mammograms can aid in early detection, which can significantly increase survival rates.

You can learn more about breast cancer treatments and prevention by visiting The National Cancer Institute and the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month organization web sites. You can also help raise awareness by getting involved with The American Cancer Society's Relay for Life or the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, joining people all across the country to raise money for cancer research.