WOOD RIVER — The Madison County Board approved a $387,375 appropriation to support breast and cervical cancer screenings and diagnostic services for eligible women.
The funding supports the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP), which provides free screenings, diagnostic testing and care coordination through the Madison County Health Department. The program serves more than 500 local women annually.
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“Early detection of breast and cervical cancer saves lives,” Madison County Health Administrator Doug King said. “When breast cancer is detected early, women have better treatment options and results.”
The appropriation comes as the Health Department prepares to recognize October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to remind women about the importance of regular screenings and the services available to them.
The program covers a range of preventive and diagnostic services, including office visits, breast exams, screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasounds, breast MRIs and biopsies. Cervical cancer services include pelvic exams, Pap and HPV tests, colposcopies and loop electrosurgical excision procedures (LEEP).
The Health Department also assists women diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer in obtaining medical coverage for treatment.
Health Services Director Amanda Pruitt said regular screenings and follow-up care play an important role in detecting cancer early, particularly for women who might otherwise delay medical appointments.
“Cervical cancer is highly preventable and highly curable if caught early,” Pruitt said. “HPV vaccination, routine screenings like Pap and HPV tests, and appropriate follow-up treatment when needed are important for cervical cancer prevention.”
The Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program helps remove financial barriers that can prevent eligible women from receiving recommended screenings and diagnostic services.
Pruitt said women often put their own health needs aside while balancing work, family and other responsibilities, making regular screenings an important part of preventive care.
“Women often delay screenings because of family, work, or other competing needs and obligations, but your health is essential,” Pruitt said. “When you prioritize screenings, you are giving yourself the best chance at a long, healthy life. You are worth it!”
