Tuesday, November 01, 2016

McCaskill: Spread the word about breast cancer awareness

(From Sen. Claire McCaskill)

Going to my doctor for a routine mammogram was a decision that saved my life.

And after sharing my breast cancer diagnosis on Tumblr and Twitter, I received an outpouring of support that I couldn't have imagined. From heartfelt messages of encouragement and compassion, to hand-knitted socks and brightly colored flowers, I felt the love from across the Show-Me State.

WATCH NOW: Discussing my diagnosis with Kermit Miller at KRCG

Now it's my duty to pay that forward and spread the word.

Under the Affordable Care Act, most insurers are required to pay for annual mammograms starting at the age of 40, with no deductibles or copays.

For women ages 35–64 (or older if they do not receive Medicare Part B) who do not have insurance and have an income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services offers free breast and cervical cancer screenings.

Uninsured or underinsured women may also be able to receive a free mammogram through one of these organizations funded by Susan G Komen Missouri.

A number of organizations throughout the state—such as Siteman Cancer Center, Missouri Baptist Medical Center, and the Ellis Fischel Cancer Center—organize mobile mammography services to make these life-saving exams more accessible to Missouri communities.

As breast cancer awareness month comes to an end, please share these resources with the women in your life.

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