STATEHOUSE (April 3, 2024) – Gov. Eric Holcomb recently signed into law legislation supported by State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) to increase awareness of the cancer risks associated with dense breast tissue.
According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that over 300,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer and more than 42,000 breast cancer deaths will occur in women in the U.S. this year. Mayfield said dense breast tissue can present a higher risk because the fatty tissue makes it more difficult to identify and diagnose cancer.
"Breast cancer is a major health concern, and many women could be more susceptible to it because of the density of their breast tissue," Mayfield said. "I supported this law to help more Hoosier women be better informed during their screenings about the type of tissue they have and what actions they should take to reduce their risks."
Mayfield said this new law will ensure dense breast tissue patients are informed of their increased risk during a mammogram examination and receive documentation. Also, aesthetic flat closer and chest wall reconstruction will be added to the insurance coverage of breast cancer rehabilitative services and reconstruction surgery.
To learn more about House Enrolled Act 1058 and other legislation signed into law by the governor, visit in.gov/gov/newsroom/2024-bill-watch.
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State Rep. Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville) represents House District 60,
which includes portions of Johnson, Morgan and Monroe counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
