Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States—1 in 8 women will get breast cancer in their lifetime. Early detection gives a woman her best chance for survival. Early-stage cervical cancer generally produces no signs or symptoms. Cervical cancer can be successfully prevented and treated if detected early through screening.

Women can protect themselves against breast and cervical cancer by asking their healthcare provider about three simple tests:

• Mammogram: An X-ray of the breast that can detect tumors.
• Pap Smears: A test that looks for unusual cell changes on the cervix that may become cancerous if not treated appropriately.
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test: A screening test that looks for the presence of HPV, the virus that can cause cervical cancer.

The Georgia Department of Public Health provides breast and cervical cancer screening, diagnostic services, and referral to treatment as medically indicated to uninsured and underinsured women residing in Georgia.

Eligibility

The Breast and Cervical Cancer Program provides cancer screening services at no or low cost. You may qualify for program services if you are:

• A Georgia resident who meets the income criteria
• Uninsured or underinsured
• Ages 40-64 (breast services)
• Ages 21-64 or 65 and older if not enrolled in Medicare Part B (cervical services)

Services

Services provided by the Georgia Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP) include:

• Mammogram/Clinical breast exam
• Pap smear and HPV test
• Pelvic Exam
• Diagnostic services
• Patient navigation and referrals
• Genetic testing

Individuals under 18 may also be eligible for free or low-cost HPV vaccination. Women diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer, or precancerous conditions, may be eligible to receive coverage and access to care and treatment through the Women’s Health Medicaid Program as authorized by the Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment and Prevention Act passed by Congress in 2000.

To find out if you are eligible and to access services, please call your local county public health department.

For more information about BCCP, go to dph.georgia.gov/BCCP or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

*[Note: For residents of the North Georgia Health District, comprised of Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens, and Whitfield counties, go to www.nghd.org to find our locations for BCCP services provided locally through our County Health Departments.]