Little Rock, Arkansas – In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) is expanding access to free breast and cervical cancer screenings through the state’s BreastCare program. Officials said the initiative is designed to provide no-cost screenings, follow-up services, and educational resources to eligible women across the state.
The program partners with a network of providers throughout Arkansas to ensure that women can access these vital services, regardless of their financial situation. “Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in the state and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Arkansas and across the United States,” ADH officials said. Each year, nearly 400 women in Arkansas die from breast cancer, while more than 2,690 are newly diagnosed, underscoring the importance of early detection.
Current data shows that Arkansas ranks 35th lowest in the nation for mammography screenings and 43rd lowest for pap tests, highlighting the need for increased access and awareness. The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women aged 40 to 74 receive a mammogram every two years, while cervical cancer screenings are advised for women aged 21 to 64. The BreastCare program mirrors these guidelines, offering free breast cancer screenings for eligible women aged 40 to 64 and free cervical cancer screenings for women aged 21 to 64.
Since its creation under the Breast Cancer Act of 1997, the BreastCare program has made significant strides in connecting women with life-saving services. ADH officials reported that more than 155,972 women have participated in breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services through the program. “These screenings not only detect cancer early but also provide women with critical health education and support services,” the department said.
Officials emphasized that the program goes beyond just screenings. Follow-up care and education are key components, ensuring that women who receive abnormal results can quickly access diagnostic testing and treatment options. By removing financial barriers and increasing access, ADH aims to reduce cancer-related mortality and improve overall women’s health outcomes across the state.
Women who may be eligible for the program or would like more information are encouraged to call 1-833-693-2942 or visit ARBreastCare.com. With Breast Cancer Awareness Month serving as a reminder to prioritize health, officials urge women not to delay these essential screenings. Early detection, they note, remains one of the most effective tools in combating breast and cervical cancers.
As awareness grows, programs like BreastCare play a vital role in empowering women to take charge of their health, ensuring that cost or access does not prevent potentially life-saving care.
