The BreasTEST & More program was initiated by the DHR and

provides free or reduced-cost mammograms to low income and uninsured

Georgia women ages 40 and older. Women who are eligible can receive

mammograms at local health departments around the state. About

15,000 Georgia women receive screening services through BreasTEST & More

each year. Since the program's inception, more than 600

women have learned they needed treatment for cancer.

DHR and the Georgia Cancer Coalition also have partnered with

the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicle Safety to promote the

Georgia Breast Cancer license plate. Proceeds from purchase of

this special state tag provide screening and treatment services

for Georgians in need. The Breast Cancer plates are available

year-round at county tag offices and also may be ordered on the

Vehicle Registration Renewal Form sent to car owners in the mail

"Buying a Breast Cancer tag is an easy and important action

step people can take to fight this terrible disease in Georgia.

It can make a real difference in helping to ensure that all Georgians

get the breast cancer screening and treatment services they need," states

Bill Todd, President of the Georgia Cancer Coalition.

About 6,000 Georgia women will be diagnosed with breast cancer

this year, and at least 1,000 women in the state are expected

to die from the disease. Mammograms have been shown to lower

the number of deaths caused by breast cancer by more than 30

percent.

"Annual mammograms save lives," said Ruth Schultz,

program director for the Georgia DHR breast and cervical cancer

program. "It is the best action that a woman over the age

of 40 can take to detect breast cancer in its early stages when

the disease is most treatable. Breast Cancer Prevention and Awareness

Day allows us to emphasize the lifesaving benefits of routine

mammograms."

DHR and the American Cancer Society recommend that women over

40 get a mammogram every one to two years. Women who have had

breast cancer or breast problems, or those with a family history

of breast cancer, should start mammograms at a younger age. Consult

with your health care provider to determine a screening plan

that is right for you.

In addition to seeking routine mammograms and undergoing clinical

breast examinations, all women should conduct monthly breast

self-exams beginning at the age of 20. Regardless of age, a woman

should talk to a health care provider immediately if they find

a lump or notice changes in their breasts.

To learn more about breast cancer and the BreasTEST & More

program, call 1-800-4CANCER, or visit www.georgiacancer.org.

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