WHEREAS,

According to the American Cancer Society, in 2024, approximately 5,950 Maryland women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 830 will succumb to the disease, making breast cancer the second leading cause of cancer death among women in Maryland after lung cancer; and

WHEREAS,

The breast cancer mortality rate is higher for Black women in Maryland in comparison to white women in Maryland; and

WHEREAS,

Research indicates that screening mammograms can reduce breast cancer deaths; and

WHEREAS,

Early detection of breast cancer is vital to the health and well-being of all Maryland residents, including men and transgender persons; and

WHEREAS,

The Maryland Department of Health encourages all Maryland residents to learn about their risk for breast cancer, ways to reduce the risk, and to speak to their health care provider about prevention and early detection methods; and

WHEREAS,

The Maryland Department of Health has programs that can assist eligible uninsured and underinsured Maryland residents with breast cancer screening and follow-up, diagnosis, and treatment services without cost-sharing; and 

WHEREAS,

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting breast cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, survivorship, and research efforts and to ensuring that all Maryland residents are aware of breast cancer resources that are available to them.