Westchester County Health Department Recognizes October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Westchester County Health Department Reminds Women to Schedule Their Breast Cancer Screening

The Westchester County Health Department is reminding residents that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a great time for women ages 40 and up to schedule a screening with their healthcare provider, learn about their risk factors and whether they are candidates for earlier and more frequent mammograms and additional screenings.

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among American women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While most cases occur in women ages 50 and older, about 10 percent of new breast cancers are found in women younger than 45. That’s why it is important for younger women to disclose any family history of breast cancer, and talk with their doctor about their risk factors.

Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler said: “Although we cannot control our age, family history, height or ethnicity, to reduce our risk of developing breast cancer, women ages 40 and older who are at average risk should have mammograms every year or two, as their doctor recommends. Women at greater risk need more frequent screening.”

As a preventive measure after menopause, it helps to maintain a healthy weight, be physically active, avoid alcohol and tobacco, and avoid taking hormone replacement therapy that contains both estrogen and progesterone for more than five years, according to the CDC.

Symptoms of breast cancer can include any change in the size or shape of the breast, pain in any area of the breast, discharge or a new lump in the breast or underarm. Women should bring any changes to the attention of their healthcare provider.

Here’s how to learn more about breast cancer screening and support in Westchester:

  • October 2 at 5:30 p.m. – Bilingual Cancer Information Session and Registration for Free Cancer Screenings through the Hudson Valley Region Cancer Services Program at the Carver Center, 400 Westchester Ave., Port Chester. This program is presented by Cancer Support Community Greater NY & CT, American Cancer Society, Cancer Support Team, Open Door Family Medical Center and the Westchester County Department of Health. For questions and to register, contact Karina Lehan at 914-305-6024.
  • October 20 at 9 a.m. – Making Strides of Westchester, presented by Houlihan-Lawrence, is a fundraiser to support the American Cancer Society’s breast cancer research, patient services, education and prevention initiatives. To join or contribute, go to https://signup.cancer.org, email or call 914-294-4318. 
  • October 27, Noon to 2 p.m.  – St. Bernard Catholic Church, 51 Prospect St., White Plains. Free breast and pancreatic screening education will follow the Spanish Mass. White Plains Hospital staff will schedule follow-up appointments for interested attendees after the event. Call 914-949-2111.
  • The Cancer Support Community Greater NY & CT offers year-round free support groups and activities for adults, children, teenagers and families affected by cancer. Call 914-644-8844, email or view their events calendar at https://gcw.gnosishosting.net/Events/Calendar.
  • White Plains Hospital and the Breast Cancer Alliance offer free mammograms to qualified women ages 40 and up. Contact Monique Morocho at 914-849-7567 or .
  • The Cancer Services Program of the Hudson Valley offers information and referrals to free cancer screenings and diagnostic testing at health centers Countywide for uninsured or underinsured residents. Call  914-488-6400 or visit westchestergov.com/health.