Connecticut officials are urging women to prioritize their health during Breast Cancer Awareness Month by getting regular screenings that can detect cancer early, when it is most treatable. At a news conference in New Haven, Governor Ned Lamont, Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz, and Connecticut Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, M.D., emphasized the importance of access to early detection services across the state.

Mammograms remain the standard screening tool for identifying breast cancer before symptoms arise. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends biennial mammograms for women ages 40 to 74. Connecticut ranks fourth in the nation for screening rates among women over 40, with a 76.2% screening rate—well above the national average.

“Getting screened on a regular basis is key to detecting breast cancer early when it is most treatable,” said Governor Lamont. “We have incredible medical services in Connecticut that specialize in detecting and treating breast cancer. If you are uninsured or underinsured, we can connect you with providers that will give you a mammogram at no cost. This is critically important and can save your life.”

“I’m so proud that Connecticut has been at the forefront of raising awareness and promoting access to life-saving early detection tools, like mammograms,” said Lt. Governor Bysiewicz. “I cannot say it enough – early detection saves lives. I know that asking questions and booking appointments can be anxiety inducing, but it’s too important to skip. When cancer is caught earlier – before it even has a chance to grow or spread – it is much easier to treat.”

“Early detection is the best defense against breast cancer,” said Commissioner Juthani. “Regular mammograms are still the best method to find breast cancer at its earliest and most treatable stage. The Department of Public Health’s Early Detection and Prevention Program provides education, no-cost screening, diagnostic and treatment services for breast and cervical cancer, to low income, uninsured, and under insured women. Over the last five years, the program provided many no-cost services, including over 12,000 mammograms. These screenings save lives.”

Connecticut residents can access free or low-cost mammograms at 21 hospitals, 40 federally qualified health centers, and 15 Planned Parenthood clinics statewide. To find a location or learn more, visit ct.gov/dph/screening or call 860-509-7804.