Kankakee Times

House Assistant Minority Leader Jackie Haas (R-Kankakee) is urging women and men to prioritize early detection and screenings for breast cancer in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and the second leading cause of cancer death in women in Illinois, according to the Illinois Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan for 2022 to 2027.

Leader Haas emphasized the importance of screenings in detecting cancer early on, stating, "Many of us have known or know someone who has breast cancer. This terrible disease has claimed too many lives of both women and men, and screenings are critical to detecting cancer early on. We can spread the word to our friends and add it to our conversations to ensure all women are taking these steps to screen for breast cancer."

The primary risk factors for breast cancer include being a woman and of an older age. Women with a family history of breast cancer or inherited changes in their BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes are also at higher risk. It is recommended that women between the ages of 40 and 74 undergo regular screenings, which may include mammograms, breast MRIs with mammograms, clinical breast exams from a doctor, and breast self-exams.

To access more information on breast cancer prevention, risk factors, and treatment, individuals can visit nationalbreastcancer.org. Leader Haas, who serves as the House Republican Spokesperson of the Health Care Availability & Access and chairs the House Supporting Women & Families working group, is dedicated to promoting the early detection of breast cancer and ensuring access to necessary healthcare resources for women and families.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder for individuals to prioritize their health and take proactive steps towards early detection and prevention. By spreading awareness and encouraging regular screenings, the impact of breast cancer can be mitigated, potentially saving lives and improving outcomes for those affected.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://rephaas.com/2023/10/16/leader-haas-promotes-early-detection-for-breast-cancer-awareness-month/