Breast cancer screening and early detection play an important role in your health. Routine screening tests can help find breast cancer at an early stage.
Why It Matters
- Most common cancer in women in North Dakota.
- 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
- 2nd leading cause of cancer deaths.
- When found early, survival rates are over 90%.
Take Action
- Breast cancer screening usually begins at age 40. Knowing your own breasts and personal family history might change that. Talk with your healthcare provider about when YOU should begin screening for breast cancer.
- Talk with your healthcare provider about which screening test is right for you.
- Watch for changes: lumps, pain, skin changes, or nipple discharge. Talk to your healthcare provider about any changes you notice.
- Get checked!
Lower Your Risk
- Stay active and maintain a healthy weight.
- Limit alcohol and don’t smoke.
- Keep up with regular checkups.
Learn More
Women’s Way – North Dakota Health and Human Services
Purpose: Provides free or low-cost breast and cervical cancer screenings for eligible North Dakota women.
Eligibility:
- Ages 40–64: Must live in North Dakota and be uninsured or underinsured.
- Ages 21–39: Must have breast symptoms (e.g., lump), be due for a Pap test, or need diagnostic procedures.
- Must not be enrolled in Medicaid or Medicare Part B.
- Income eligibility applies.
Services Covered:
- Mammograms
- Pap and HPV tests
- Pelvic and clinical breast exams
- Patient navigation support
How to Apply: Visit Women’s Way website or call 800-449-6636.
ACS CancerRisk360 – American Cancer Society
Purpose: A free online tool to assess personal cancer risk and get actionable recommendations.
Features:
- Personalized action plan based on lifestyle, family history, and screening habits.
- Covers modifiable risk factors (e.g., smoking, diet, physical activity).
- Offers screening recommendations for breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers.
Who Can Use It: Anyone 18+; no medical history required.
Access It Here: ACS CancerRisk360
American Cancer Society – Patient Programs and Services
Support Offered:
- 24/7 Cancer Helpline: Emotional support and guidance (1-800-227-2345).
- Hope Lodge®: Free lodging during treatment.
- ACS CARES™: Navigation and support for patients and caregivers.
- Road To Recovery: Free rides to treatment.
- Cancer Survivors Network: Online peer support.
- Clinical Trials Matching: Help finding and understanding trials.
- EverYou™: Wigs, headwear, and post-surgical products.
More Info: ACS Support Services
Prevent Cancer Foundation
Mission: Empower people to prevent cancer through education, early detection, and screening.
Programs Include:
- Public education campaigns
- Risk assessment tools
- Advocacy for screening access
- Research funding for early detection technologies
Explore More: Prevent Cancer Foundation
Susan G. Komen Breast Care Helpline
Services Offered:
- Breast health and cancer information
- Emotional support
- Clinical trial education
- Financial assistance for eligible patients (including metastatic breast cancer)
- No-cost screening and diagnostic services (income-based)
- Culturally responsive patient navigation
Contact: 1-877-GO-KOMEN (465-6636) helpline@komen.org More Info
MDsave – Affordable Imaging (Including Breast MRI)
Purpose: Offers discounted upfront pricing for medical procedures including Breast MRI.
Pricing:
- MRI with and without contrast: Estimated national average is $1,335.
- MRI without contrast: Around $893.
Eligibility:
- Available to uninsured or high-deductible plan holders.
- Not valid for Medicare/Medicaid users.
- May count toward deductible for some insurance plans.
How It Works:
- Search for procedure and provider.
- Pay online or at facility.
- Bring voucher to appointment.
Visit: MDsave