Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed non-skin cancer in women. There is about a 1 in 8 chance you will develop breast cancer at some point during your life.

Mortality rates are higher for African American women than any other race or ethnic group, and breast cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer death in Georgia women.

The risk of getting breast cancer increases with age.  Approximately 8 in 10  women with breast cancer are over 50 at the time of diagnosis. Breast cancer mortality rates are three times higher in women 50-64 than women 40-49 years of age.

Younger women generally do not consider themselves to be at risk for breast cancer.  However, breast cancer can strike at any age and all women are at risk.  No matter your age, you should be aware of your personal risk factors.

Learn more about breast cancer risk factors and symptoms.

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is the eighth leading cancer diagnosis and cause of death in Georgia women.  Mortality rates are higher for African American women than any other race or ethnic group.

Most women with cervical cancer are diagnosed before the age of 50.

However, older women remain at risk, with more than 2 in 10 new cases diagnosed in women over 65.   In contrast, cervical cancer in women younger than age 20 is rare.  Mortality rates for cervical cancer are higher in women 50-64 than women aged 40-49.

Learn more about cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms.

Where Can I Find Screening Services in My Area?

The health department offers many breast and cervical cancer screening services.  However, not all services are available at all Northeast Health District locations.  Please call the clinic you plan to visit to ensure the service(s) you need is available.

You may be eligible for breast and cervical cancer screening services under the Breast & Cervical Cancer program.  For information and eligibility requirements check out our Breast & Cervical Cancer Program page.