OCTOBER IS WOMEN'S HEALTH &
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Heart disease and cancer account for over 40% of female deaths in a given year. It is important to have regular physical examinations with your doctor to help detect problems early and treat if necessary. What are the recommended screenings and tests for women? Click here.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. When detected early, the 5-year survival rate is 100%. Lower your risk of getting breast cancer by having your recommended screenings, doing monthly breast self-exams, exercising 30 minutes a day and eating a nutritious low-fat diet.

Changes that may warrant a visit to your doctor include:

• Lump in the breast
• Lump or thickening near the breast or underarm area
• Change in skin texture
• Nipple tenderness

Read “What You Need to Know” to learn more about breast cancer here.

Make your breast health a priority. Be informed and empowered. Get your free eBook What Every Woman Needs to Know from the National Breast Cancer Foundation here.

Cervical cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when detected early. Getting screened for cervical cancer with a Pap test can detect changes in the cervix before cancer develops or when it is in its most curable stage. Women should have their first Pap test at age 21 and every three years thereafter if the results are normal. Certain silent infections, such as Chlamydia and HPV (Human Papilloma Virus), can also be detected during this exam and can be treated effectively before long-term complications occur. For more information on how to prevent cervical cancer, click here.

This information is provided by nationalbreastcancer.org, womenshealth.gov and the CDC. These screening tests and preventive care services are a recommendation only and not a guarantee of payment for services. Your doctor is the best person to help you decide which tests and treatments are best for you. If you have questions regarding coverage of services, please contact the PreferredOne Customer Service number listed on your insurance card.