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Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program

Breast Health Information


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Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in women in the United States, resulting in more than 180,000 cases each year. More than 3,800 women are diagnosed each year in Tennessee and about 900 women die from breast cancer. Many lives are saved because of new treatment methods if breast cancer is found in the early stages.

Lynne, a Nashville resident, was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 39 and is now 51. She had bilateral mastectomies and reconstruction. She received help from support groups and now works to educate communities about the necessities of research and clinical trials.




Risk Factors


  • Age 40 or above
  • A personal or family history of breast cancer (mother, daughter, sister)
  • A clinical breast exam that is abnormal
  • A change in the size or shape of your breasts
  • A lump or thickening of your breast
  • Nipple thickening or discharge
  • Having your first child after age 30

Judy of West Memphis, TN found a lump in her breast and received a mammogram and ultrasound the next day with subsequent removal of the lump. She had breast cancer that was diagnosed early; she is a 14-year survivor.

Early Detection

Early detection is the key to breast health. A mammogram is a simple X-ray that can detect abnormalities which may lead to invasive breast cancer. Screening mammograms with clinical breast exams are the best way to detect abnormalities in their earliest, most treatable stages.

Yvonne, another Memphis resident, was diagnosed with breast cancer and states: “Early detection is so important! Don’t be afraid to get the help available.”

Screening Guidelines for Mammograms


  • Age 50 to 64
  • Age 40 to 49 with:
    • A mother, daughter, or sister with breast cancer
    • A personal history of breast cancer

Any woman who has an abnormal clinical breast exam that is suspicious for breast cancer should contact her primary care provider as soon as possible.

What You Can Do


  • Do monthly breast self exams
  • Get a clinical breast exam once a year by a trained professional
  • Decrease or stop drinking alcohol
  • Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Exercise at least 20 minutes every day
  • Ask your doctor to send you for a mammogram beginning at age 40

Special Note: The American Cancer Society recommends beginning breast cancer screening at age 40. The state program cannot provide this service to women ages 40 to 49 without symptoms because of federal guidelines and limited financial resources. There are some health care centers that have funds from other sources available to help women who meet the financial criteria.