Breast and cervical screenings can detect cancer early when the cancer is easier to treat, providing better treatment options and results. Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women. Take charge, and get screened for yourself and for those who depend on you. Early diagnosis of breast or cervical cancer could save your life.
About Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings
Breast Cancer Screening
Women should consult their healthcare provider about the best breast cancer screening options for them. Click here to learn about different screening options. For many women, mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt. A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that shows the inside of your breasts to determine if there are any areas of concern. Click here to learn more about this screening from the CDC.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer often has no noticeable symptoms. Screening can find any abnormal changes that could turn into cancer. . For the screening, a pap test is used to collect cells from the cervix to be examined under a microscope in a lab. A pap test is a brush that sweeps cells from the cervix.
Need Help Accessing or Paying for Routine Screenings or Treatment?
If you are a woman living in Boone, Dekalb, or Winnebago County over the age of 21 who needs assistance accessing or paying for routine breast and cervical cancer exams or treatment, please call the Winnebago County Health Department at 815-720-4000, option 1 then 5 and let us help.
Click here to learn more about the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program
