During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Gordon-Booth Highlights Free Screenings

PEORIA, Ill. – In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, state Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth, D-Peoria, is  drawing attention to the availability of free breast cancer screenings and treatment options for low-income women.

“Far too many women in Illinois are not aware that free screening options for breast cancer are available,” Gordon-Booth said. “No woman should have to suffer through the devastating effects of breast cancer because they could not afford screening or treatment.”

Gordon-Booth is highlighting the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP), operated by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), which provides free breast exams, mammograms, Pap tests and pelvic exams for low-income women. Patients enrolled in the program are also eligible for treatment benefits. The IBCCP is open to uninsured Illinois women between the ages of 35 and 64. Women can find out more about the program at IDPH’s breast cancer screening website, cancerscreening.illinois.gov or by calling the state’s Women’s Health Line toll-free at 888-522-1282.

“The Illinois Breast and Cervical Program allows women to receive breast cancer screening exams and treatment, regardless of their income,” Gordon-Booth. “This critical program can mean the difference between life and death for women who can’t otherwise afford health care services. During this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I encourage women to check their eligibility for free breast cancer screenings.”