Miller-Meeks Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month
IOWA– Today Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) released a statement for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and provided information to better help with early detection.
"This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I’m fighting to make early detection accessible for every family," said Dr. Miller-Meeks. "That’s why I cosponsored the Nancy Gardner Sewell Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act, legislation that enhances coverage for breast cancer screening, allowing timely access to early detection technology that saves lives."
Early detection can help increase survival rates. According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. To stay on top of early detection do monthly breast self-exams and schedule regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.
Background
In an effort to improve access to cancer screenings, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks has led 3 critical bills: The SERVICE Act, the MAMMO for Veterans Act and the Nancy Gardner Sewell Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act.
SERVICE Act
- Increases access to breast cancer screenings for female veterans.
- Provides mammography screenings for veterans who served in locations associated with toxic exposure.
MAMMO for Veterans Act
- Requires the VA to upgrade all of their breast imaging to 3D mammography and to expand on clinical trials and research breast cancer care.
- Increases access to breast cancer screenings for female veterans.
Nancy Gardner Sewell Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act
- Allows Medicare coverage and payment for multi-cancer early detection screening tests.
- Allows Medicare coverage for innovative blood tests that detect cancers earlier.
For more resources on early detection from the National Breast Cancer Foundation please CLICK HERE.