October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to focus on the risks and symptoms of breast cancer and promote frequent screenings among women with higher risks.
Over 5,000 Hoosiers are diagnosed each year with breast cancer and 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes. However, when caught early, the 5-year survival rate is 99%. Learn more about low- or no-cost mammograms here.
In 2024, Indiana passed legislation ensuring patients with dense breast tissue, which increases the risk of breast cancer by 15% to 20%, are made aware of their increased risks and outlines the protocol for mammogram examinations and documentation. In addition, the law expanded insurance coverage on breast cancer rehabilitative services and reconstruction surgery.
This past session, the General Assembly took steps to improve treatment options for breast cancer and pediatric cancer patients. A new law establishes the Breast Cancer Research Fund to provide grants for innovative research into novel forms of treatment and therapies that could be used in Indiana and throughout the U.S. Read more about the new law here.
To learn how to detect breast cancer early and find support, visit nationalbreastcancer.org. Together, we can raise awareness of breast cancer risks and treatment options. Let's also unite to support our fellow Hoosiers who are bravely fighting this disease.
