The Florida Department of Health in Volusia County wants women to know that limited income does not mean necessary cancer screenings are inaccessible and, in many cases, free treatment for a diagnosis is available.
The Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program provides access to doctor-recommended breast and cervical cancer screenings, including screenings for women without medical insurance, limited income, and ages 50 to 64. Women under the age of 50 who have symptoms may also qualify.
For more information, Department of Health staff have planned several informative presentations from 3 to 4 p.m. at the following dates and locations:
- April 14, at the Daytona Beach Regional Library, 105 Jackie Robinson Parkway, Daytona Beach;
- May 3, at the Port Orange Regional Library, 1005 City Center Blvd., Port Orange;
- May 26, at the DeLand Regional Library, 130 E. Howry Ave., DeLand;
- June 9, at the New Smyrna Beach Regional Library, 1001 S. Dixie Freeway, New Smyrna Beach.
Women who live outside of Volusia County are also welcomed to attend. Referrals are available in other counties.
There are more than 100 different types of cancer. Cancer occurs when abnormal cells divide without control and can invade other tissues. Most are named for the organ or type of cell in which they begin.
Florida has the second highest cancer burden in the nation. Since 2014, cancer has been the second leading cause of death in Florida, after heart disease. Early detection is the key to successful diagnosis and treatment of breast and cervical cancer among others. A clinical breast exam, mammography, and Pap test are often a women’s first line of defense.
For more information on the program or the presentations, call 1-800-226-6110.
— Florida Department of Health in Volusia County Public Information Specialist Wendi Jackson
