Crespo Draws Attention to Free Screenings During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

STREAMWOOD, Ill. – In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, state Rep. Fred Crespo, D-Hoffman Estates, is highlighting the Illinois Breast Cancer and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP), which provides free screenings to Illinois women who lack access to health care coverage.

“Like with any illness, early detection and treatment of breast cancer is critical,” Crespo said. “While we work to address some of the systemic issues within our health care system, we’ve made sure that at risk women have access to free breast cancers screenings and treatment if need be.”

Crespo is encouraging women in need to take advantage of the Breast Cancer and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP). The program is operated by Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), and provides eligible women free breast exams and mammograms, as well as Pap tests and pelvic exams. Women are eligible for these services if they are an uninsured Illinois resident between the ages of 35 and 64. Additionally, if someone who is enrolled in the IBCCP is diagnosed with cancer through the program’s screenings and tests, they would be eligible to receive treatment benefits. For more information, please visit www.dph.illinois.gov or call the Illinois Women’s Health-Line at 1-888-522-1282.

This spring, Crespo supported a bipartisan, balanced budget that provided $14.5 million for these potentially lifesaving services for Illinois women, as well as legislation to mandate that insure companies cover diagnostic mammograms as part of preventative care.

“It is unacceptable that cancer is one of the leading causes of death for women and yet many Illinois residents lack access to potentially lifesaving services whether they are insured or not,” Crespo said. “We made significant progress this year to expand access to health care and I remain committed to supporting initiatives that advance the priorities of women, children and families in our state.”