Fuschillo Urges Women to Get Screened for Breast Cancer

As National Breast Cancer Awareness Month begins, New York State Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) is reminding women in Lindenhurst and elsewhere in his district that early detection plays a critical role in beating breast cancer.

 “Early detection greatly increases the chances of successfully treating breast cancer, which is why it’s so important for women to get screened regularly and practice good health habits,” said Fuschillo in a statement.

“There are a number of programs that give women access to screenings and support for those who are affected by breast cancer, and I encourage women to take advantage of them,” he added.

According to the American Cancer Society, the chances of a woman developing breast cancer at some point in her life are approximately one in 8. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States.

The American Cancer Society offers the following recommendations for early breast cancer detection:

• Women should have annual mammograms once they reach the age of 40.
• Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam performed by a health professional at least once every three years. Women 40 years old and alder should have this exam performed each year.
• Breast self exams are an option for women once they reach their 20s. Women who decide to do breast self-exams should consult with their doctor or nurse to make sure they are doing it correctly. Women should see their doctors right away if they detect anything abnormal.
• Women who have a family history of breast or other correlating factors that could increase their risk of developing breast cancer should talk to their doctors about when to start screening.

Both Suffolk and Nassau Counties provide mammography screenings for women at various locations throughout Long Island. These screenings are often either no-out-of pocket cost or low cost to patients.

Women who want more information about these services could call Senator Fuschillo’s office at 516-882-0630. Fuschillo regularly sponsoring mammography screening programs, like the one he offered this past August.

There are also local organizations that provide support services to individuals with breast cancer and their families.

Families who’d like more information about these programs could call 1 in 9: The Long Island Breast Cancer Action Coalition at 516-374-3190 or the Adelphi New York Statewide Breast Cancer and Support Program Hotline and Support Program at 800-877-8077.