House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

House of Representatives
Session of 2019 - 2020 Regular Session

Posted:	January 11, 2019 08:44 AM
From:	Representative Maria P. Donatucci
To:	All House members
Subject:	Increasing Access to Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings

Every year in the United States, over 230,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer and over 12,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer. While early detection can positively impact the outcomes of these two cancers, death occurs disproportionately among low-income uninsured and underinsured women who may not have access to vital screening services. For this reason, I am introducing legislation to expand the age eligibility for low-income uninsured and underinsured women under the Pennsylvania Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Screening Program. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among American women and one of the most deadly, taking the lives of over 40,000 women in 2015. Undergoing regular screening tests is the most reliable way to detect breast cancer early, when the cancer is small and has not spread. Like breast cancer, cervical cancer was once one of the most common causes of cancer death for American women. However, the death rate has dropped significantly with the increased use of screenings, which offer the best chance to find and treat cervical cancer successfully. By expanding the age eligibility for qualified women, we can ensure access to these crucial services and provide a better chance of beating cancer for many more women. Please join me in taking this important step towards improving the health and lives of women throughout the Commonwealth. Thank you for your consideration.
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Introduced as HB419