Mammo May in PA
May is Mammography Month in PA!
This month, we partner with Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward to encourage women across Pennsylvania to schedule their annual breast cancer screenings.
What is a mammogram?
- A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray of the breast tissue. A radiologist will view the results and look for any signs of breast cancer or anything abnormal that may need additional imaging. Most mammograms take about 20 minutes. No insurance? Mammograms are available at no cost in PA. opens in a new windowClick here to learn more.
Who should get a mammogram?
- Annual mammograms are recommended for women beginning at age 40 or beginning as early as age 25 if a woman is considered at increased risk for breast cancer. Factors that increase risk can include a family history of breast cancer, dense breast tissue, a genetic predisposition to breast cancer or previous radiation therapy.
What if I get called back?
- If something looks abnormal or your mammogram results show a change in breast tissue, you may be called back for further testing such as a diagnostic mammogram, ultrasound or breast MRI. You may also be referred to a breast specialist or a surgeon. This does not necessarily mean you have cancer or need surgery. Doctors will do follow-up tests to diagnose breast cancer or to find that there is no cancer present.
Mammo May by the Numbers
0%
of Pennsylvania women miss their mammogram each year
0
women will be diagnosed with breast cancer today in PA
0%
of women survive at least 5 years after an early-stage diagnosis
Screening or diagnostic?
Pennsylvania has laws to cover both breast cancer screenings and diagnostic breast imaging at no cost for individuals with state-regulated insurance. Under opens in a new windowAct 1 of 2023, supplemental screenings including breast MRI, ultrasounds and BRCA-related genetic testing and counseling are covered at no cost for those with an increased risk of who are insured under PA law. Under opens in a new windowAct 52 of 2025*, which is currently in the implementation stage, diagnostic breast imaging including diagnostic mammograms, breast MRI and ultrasounds are covered at no cost for individuals insured under PA law who are of average risk or higher. Pennsylvania laws do not impact coverage provided by self-insured, ERISA, Medicare or Medicaid plans.
*Act 52 is currently in the implementation phase. opens in a new windowClick here to learn more about eligibility.
Uninsured or Underinsured?
No-cost mammograms, supplemental screenings, and follow-up diagnostic tests are available through the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (PA-BCCEDP) for Pennsylvanians without insurance or for those with a high-deductible plan.
Find a 3D mammogram near you
Mammogram on the calendar?
Spread the word! opens in a new windowDownload this graphicopens IMAGE file and share it proudly on social media. Use #MammoMay and encourage the women in your life to schedule their annual mammograms. Everything is easier with support!
Mammograms matter.
“The mammogram made the difference. I had no pain, no lumps. no nothing. I go every year and it was routine for me to go. I was diagnosed with stage I triple-negative breast cancer. Had I not gotten that mammogram, I wouldn’t have known. It’s 100% important to get it done!”
- Val M., Camp Hill
“After my diagnosis, I decided that I was going to help as many women as I could – to let them know that they have to get their mammogram done. This is important. It literally could save your life!”
- Milla C., West Milton
