The St. Mary’s County Health Department helps eligible women receive screening services for breast and cervical cancer. Through the St. Mary’s County Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program, eligible women receive regular clinical breast exams, mammograms, Pap tests, and associated diagnostic services at no cost to them. Through a separate initiative offered by the Maryland Department of Health, breast or cervical cancer diagnosis and treatment services may also be covered for eligible Maryland residents.
Breast and Cervical Cancers
Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body divide and spread uncontrollably, damaging the body.
When cancer starts in the breast, it is called breast cancer. Aside from skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women. Due to this, breast cancer screening is essential for early detection. Breast cancer screening is a way to detect signs of breast cancer through mammograms, MRI of the breast (magnetic resonance imaging), and CBE (clinical breast exam). A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. A mammogram is the number one way to find breast cancer early. Finding signs of breast cancer early makes it easier to treat before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms.
When cancer starts in the cervix, it is called cervical cancer. The cervix connects the vagina (birth canal) to the upper part of the uterus (or womb). The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is highly preventable in most Western countries because screening tests and a vaccine to prevent HPV infections are readily available, with many physicians urging teens to get the vaccine between the ages of 11 and 12. When cervical cancer is found early, it is highly treatable and associated with long survival and good quality of life.
Early Detection and Treatment
One of the biggest hopes of breast and cervical cancer screening is to increase the survival rate of those with cancer.
When breast cancer is detected in the localized stage (no sign of spreading) through screening, there is a 99% survival rate five or more years after diagnosis.
When cervical cancer is detected in the early stages, there is a 91% survival rate five or more years after diagnosis.
When and How Often Should I Screen?
Early detection is by far the most beneficial way to detect and treat breast and cervical cancer. But when should you begin screening, and how often?
Cervical Cancer
- Should start at age 21, regardless of if you are sexually active
- People between the ages of 25-65 should get an HPV test every five years
- People 65+ who have had regular cervical cancer screening in the past ten years SHOULD NOT be tested for cervical cancer and should not be retested after testing has stopped
- People who have had their cervix removed should not be tested
- If you are vaccinated against HPV, you should follow the above recommendations
Breast Cancer
- Women ages 40-44 should start getting annual screening with a mammogram
- Women aged 45-54 should get mammograms every year
- Women aged 55+ should have mammograms every two years or can continue getting them annually
Don’t forget that you can also do a self-examination for breast cancer at home!
- You can do it in the shower by firmly pressing the pads of your three middle fingers in the armpit area and feeling for any new lumps, thickenings, hardened knots, and any other unusual breast changes
- In the mirror with arms by your side, you can look to see if you notice any unusual dimpling, swelling, or skin irregularities
- While lying down, place a pillow under your right shoulder. Use the three middle fingers on your left hand to cover the entire breast and armpit area and apply pressure to feel for knots, lumps, and thickenings. Also, squeeze your nipple and check for discharge. Then, repeat the same with your left breast.
If you do notice any of these changes during your self-examination, please immediately contact your health provider
Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program
A woman is eligible for mammograms and breast exams if she is:
- Between the ages of 40-64
- Uninsured, underinsured, or limited income
- A Maryland resident
A woman is eligible for cervical exams and Pap tests if she is:
- Between the ages of 21-64
- Uninsured, underinsured, or limited income
- A Maryland resident
The following services may be provided based on screening and medical history:
- Clinical Breast Exam
- Mammogram
- Pap test
- Diagnostic services following an abnormal breast or cervical cancer screening
To get more information or to enroll in the Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program, contact the St. Mary’s County Health Department at (301) 475-4330.
Breast and Cervical Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Program
The Maryland Breast and Cervical Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Program is offered through the Center for Cancer Prevention and Control at the state of Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. This program reimburses participating health care providers who deliver covered breast and cervical cancer diagnostic and treatment services to eligible Maryland women. Click here for eligibility criteria, information on what medical services may be covered, and an application to enroll in the program. More information is also available by calling 410-767-6787 or 1-800-477-9774.
Additional Resources
- St. Mary’s County Health Department Cancer Screening Services flyer (En Espanol)
- Cancer Prevention and Control Information from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- More Information about Breast Cancer
- National Cancer Institute – Cancer Screening Tests
