During National Public Health Week, we’re highlighting some of the important work Uncas Health District does in our community. One of our key services is providing free, potentially life-saving screenings for individuals who might have trouble accessing these crucial medical services.
Cancer is a serious health concern, and one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Early detection is key in the fight against this serious illness, and we’re proud to partner with the state to make these screenings available.
The Power of Early Detection
Cancer can develop slowly, which is why regular medical check-ups are important for identifying their symptoms. Primary care physicians routinely order screenings for their patients in order to identify potential signs of cancer and track changes in the body over time.
If cancer is detected too late, there is a greater chance that it will have metastasized, or spread to other parts of the body. When this occurs, there is a much greater risk of serious illness or death.
Early screening allows cancer to be treated before it can progress. This not only means that the survival rate is improved, but also that it can be addressed with less invasive methods that improve one’s quality of life during treatment and recovery.
Unfortunately, people may not think that these screenings are accessible to them. This is most likely to occur when someone is uninsured or underinsured, or when they have a lower income and do not believe they can afford medical services.
Making Screenings More Accessible
Uncas Health District is a proud participant in the Connecticut Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. This program offers free screening, diagnostic, and treatment referral services to medically underserved women.
By setting up an appointment with the Uncas Health District, qualifying women can receive clinical breast exams, Pap smears, and mammograms at no cost. The services are available to qualifying women, including those living at or below 250% of poverty level or those who lack the necessary insurance to cover these screenings. Learn more about eligibility criteria here, and contact the Uncas Health District to schedule a screening.
The Uncas Health District also participates in the Connecticut Colorectal Cancer Control Program. This program aims to reduce disparities in colorectal cancer by providing free diagnostic services to identify signs that someone might have this cancer. The program is open to qualifying individuals 45 and older, including those with positive results from other colorectal cancer screenings.
Screening for Heart Disease
In our work with the Connecticut Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, the Uncas Health District also helps identify potential heart disease risk factors. Women in this program can enroll in WISEWOMAN, which provides heart disease screenings for participants between the ages of 35 and 64.
A mammogram not only allows for the detection of potentially cancerous tissue in the breast, but also the presence of breast arterial calcification during mammograms. While this is typically not related to breast cancer, it can be a sign of cardiovascular disease. When breast arterial calcification is detected, it allows for early intervention against heart disease.
Take Control of Your Health
Don’t wait. Early detection can save lives.
If you qualify for any of these programs, please reach out to the Uncas Health District today. Your health is our priority.