Please join me in recognition of an especially important cause. Breast cancer. In 2017, 2163 Arkansans were reported as having breast cancer and we grieve the loss of 414 of our loved ones to the disease. The most frequently diagnosed cancers in our state include lung, colorectal, prostate cancer in men, and breast cancer among women. October is breast cancer awareness month, and I encourage everyone to learn as much as we all can to protect the ones we love. Cancer in general is the second leading cause of death behind heart disease in our state and we only rank 37th among other states in breast cancer screenings. In recognition of breast cancer awareness month, I would like to remind everyone of the importance of lifestyle changes that might aid in cancer prevention and the importance of mammograms for early detection. Mammograms are the best way to detect the disease early when it is easier to treat and before it progresses enough to cause symptoms. Second only to skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women.
Over the past eight (8) months we have been experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic. Even during the pandemic, it is still especially important to maintain regular screenings. Please contact your healthcare provider in advance of any medical appointment to devise a plan to keep yourself and others safe during doctor visits. Be sure to choose providers that make it a priority to maintain COVID-19 safety precautions.
The General Assembly passed Act 708 in 2017 to ensure annual mammogram coverage for women over the age of forty (40). This legislation also ensures 3D ultrasounds or mammograms for women with denser breast tissue. Please remember that all women over 40 should get regular screenings. It is important to note that only 5-10% of breast cancers are believed to be hereditary and most diagnoses are with women who have no family history at all. If you are under-insured or uninsured, you may qualify for a low-cost or free mammogram through the Arkansas BreastCare program. If you would like more information visit www.healthy.arkansas.gov.
Please also remember that we are still in the midst of a global pandemic. I am aware that we are all experiencing a level of fatigue; however, we must be diligent in the fight to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. As we enter the cold winter months, we are seeing a rise in cases all over the United States. Be mindful of indoor as well as outdoor social gatherings. Many small gatherings where family members are from different households are the reason cases are continuing to rise. Wear masks and try to maintain six (6) feet of social distance when possible. Sanitize common surfaces; wash your hands with soap and water for at least twenty (20) seconds; and stay home if you are sick.
Finally, I like to share informative items that constituents might find useful. If you have questions about any legislation or the legislative process, feel free to contact me at my House of Representatives email at don.glover@arkansashouse.org or by phone at 501-682-6211. Follow me on Facebook @GloverForAR.
