Fulton County Proclaims October as Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Month

In recognition of the critical need for early detection of breast and cervical cancer, the Fulton County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed October 2024 as “Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Month.” The Georgia Department of Public Health reports that breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the U.S. and emphasizes that early detection is vital for successful treatment. The Fulton County Board of Health’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP) has examined over 200 women in fiscal year 2024 at clinics located in Adamsville, College Park, and North Fulton. The program offers essential services, including breast cancer screenings, Pap smears, diagnostics, and referrals to treatment, with a focus on supporting uninsured or underinsured women. Nationally, over 310,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, resulting in approximately 42,000 deaths, while 11,500 new cases of cervical cancer lead to around 4,000 fatalities annually. The Fulton County BCCP aims to reduce the impact of these diseases, particularly in minority communities where the disproportionate effects are evident.