DOH-Miami-Dade Promotes The Return To Early Detection And Treatment To Fight Breast Cancer
Miami, FL — In recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County encourages all women to receive regular screenings to promote early detection and treatment of breast cancer. Important advances have been made through increased awareness, breast cancer screenings, and better treatments.
“I would like to remind women that breast cancer screening is an important part of women’s health. Cancer doesn't stop, even during a global pandemic,” stated Yesenia Villalta, DNP, MSN, APRN, Administrator/Health Officer, Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County. “The most serious health risk is a delay in cancer diagnosis. The purpose of obtaining a screening mammogram is to detect breast cancer early.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), not counting some kinds of skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, no matter your race or ethnicity1. The American Cancer Society estimates over 20,000 new cases are expected in Florida this year alone2. In 2019, 3,183 women in Florida died from Female Breast Cancer3.
What should women do? Make time for screen time. Women should talk to their health care provider about their individual risk factors and the frequency of receiving mammograms, as well as complete any recommended mammogram screenings. Additionally, women can lower their risk by following these steps:
- Achieve and maintain a healthy weight
- Be physically active
- Limit or avoid alcohol
- Choose to breast feed
- Quit smoking and/or vaping
The Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (FCCEDP) provides access to the breast and cervical cancer screenings doctors recommend. The screenings are free or low cost if you meet the program eligibility requirements.
To see if you qualify, call the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County at: 305-470-5634.
About the Florida Department of Health
The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.
Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.
