PEORIA – State Senator Dave Koehler encourages women to schedule their annual breast cancer screening exam, as Breast Cancer Awareness Month draws to an end. Those who may not have scheduled a mammogram due to COVID-19 are especially encouraged to make an appointment.

“Breast cancer is an all-too-common disease plaguing the health of thousands of women across the country,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Making an appointment for your yearly exam is vital, as it could help detect signs of breast cancer early.”

Breast cancer affects over 250,000 women and 2,400 men in the United States every year, and the National Cancer Institute reports an estimated 9.4 million screening tests that normally would have taken place in 2020 did not happen due to the pandemic. 

“A diagnosis is life changing, and early detection can help give someone a fighting chance,” Koehler said. “I encourage all women who need to make their annual breast screening appointments and schedule a mammogram to do so as soon as possible.”

IDPH reminds the public that the department’s Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP) offers free breast exams and mammograms to uninsured and underinsured women. The program also supports diagnostic services and assists with referrals for treatment options.

To enroll in IBCCP, women can call the Women’s Health Line 888-522-1282 (800-547-0466 TTY). The Women’s Health Line will be able to walk women through the eligibility requirements and the screening process.

Senator Koehler’s office is available to answer questions. To contact, please call (309) 677-0120 or visit his website.