October 30, 2009

Vitter’s View: Increasing Access to Breast Cancer Prevention Services

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and in an earlier Vitter’s View this month I talked about the importance of raising awareness of this disease that affects tens of thousands of women and families throughout the United States.
          In recognition of the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I wanted to update you on my efforts to help battle this disease.
          The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2009 more than 200,000 cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed, and of that number, 40,000 women will ultimately lose their lives.
          But we can drastically reduce these numbers through early detection. Mammograms, clinical breast exams and self-examination help save thousands of lives by allowing doctors and patients to identify breast cancer in its early stages or before any of its symptoms become apparent. Providing access to these types of services will help us reduce the number of breast cancer deaths.
          That’s why I introduced the Mobile Mammography Promotion Act of 2009. This bill will help provide on-site mammographies to women in both urban and rural areas that may not have adequate access to screenings and preventive care. Across the country, similar vehicles travel thousands of miles to provide these important services that can reduce the impact of this disease and help bring about a significantly higher rate of successful treatment.
           Louisiana’s many rural areas mean that thousands of women may not have easy access to preventative services, and that’s why this bill is so important to our state. And that’s also why it’s receiving support from health experts across Louisiana, including those at
LSU Health Sciences Center's Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, Woman’s Hospital and the Mobile Health Clinics Network.
           As a member of the bipartisan U.S. Senate Cancer Coalition, I am always looking for ways to help reduce the impact of cancer on the lives of Americans. Through bills like the Mobile Mammography Promotion Act, we can provide these critical services to women living in underserved areas, giving them the fighting chance they need to battle this disease.
           I am interested in hearing your thoughts on battling breast cancer and other issues. Please contact me with your ideas at any of my state offices or in my Washington office by mail at U.S. Senator David Vitter, U.S. Senate, 516 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510, or by phone at 202-224-4623. You can also reach me on the web at http://vitter.senate.gov.