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Early Detection is the Best Protection! |
The Impact of Breast and Cervical Cancer
In 2007, the American Cancer Society
estimates that in the United States, 178,480 women will be
diagnosed with invasive breast cancer and 40,460 women will die
from the disease. During the same time period, 11,150 U.S. women
will be diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer and 3,670 will
die.
In West Virginia, the West Virginia Cancer
Registry noted that from 1999-2003, breast cancer was the most
commonly diagnosed cancer among West Virginia women and the
leading cause of cancer-related deaths among West Virginia women
aged 25 to 44 years. During the same time period, cervical
cancer was the tenth most commonly diagnosed cancer among West
Virginia women (third among women aged 25-44 years) and the
third leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women 25-44
years.
Currently, mammography is the best method
for early detection of breast cancer. Early detection not only
increases a woman’s chance of survival, but also increases her
treatment options. In terms of cervical cancer detection,
research shows that if routine cervical screening (such as Pap
tests) is followed, most cases of cervical cancer can be
prevented.
Program Goals:
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To ensure access to breast and
cervical cancer screening services for all women who meet
income, age and medical eligibility guidelines with an
emphasis on older, minority and never or rarely screened
women.
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To ensure that all women screened by
the WVBCCSP receive appropriate and timely follow-up,
diagnosis, treatment, and case management.
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To broaden statewide public education
to promote breast and cervical cancer screening in West
Virginia, with an emphasis on reducing morbidity and
mortality from breast and cervical cancer by reaching target
populations.
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To determine the educational needs of
health professionals involved with breast and cervical
cancer screening and diagnosis.
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To offer educational opportunities to
health professionals involved with breast and cervical
cancer screening.
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To monitor and assess trends in breast
and cervical cancer incidence, mortality and screening rates
for West Virginia women in order to develop effective health
promotion strategies.
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To establish linkages and
partnerships with a broad range of stakeholders to bring
additional resources to the WVBCCSP.
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To maintain and establish
mechanisms through which the state can enhance quality
assurance monitoring of screening procedures for breast
and cervical cancer.
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To provide access to full
Medicaid benefits to women under age 65, with no
credible insurance coverage, who are identified through
the WVBCCSP and are in need of treatment for breast and
cervical cancer or certain pre-cancerous conditions.
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