Source (The American Cancer Society, The Center for Disease Control and Prevention)

Except for skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women. In 2004 it was one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women, second only to lung cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be 211,240 new cases of breast cancer among American women in 2005, and 75% of all diagnosed cases would be among women aged 50 years or older.

Although breast cancer presents a serious problem in our country, many deaths from this cancer can be prevented by timely screening. Studies show that timely mammography screening among women aged 40 years or older could reduce breast cancer mortality by approximately 16% compared with women who are not screened.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women aged 40 years or older should receive screening mammograms every 1 or 2 years.

The mission of the Collin County Breast Cancer Services Program is to promote the early detection of breast cancer among low-income and uninsured women in the county. We plan to accomplish this mission by providing quality education regarding the potential benefits of early detection and thorough examination and screening to detect early signs of the disease.

Collin County Health Care Services has received a grant from the North Texas Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., which provides annual breast screening and treatment referrals for low income, uninsured residents of Collin County. Eligibility will be determined based on a simple application. The following services will be provided:

• Assessment
• Education
• Examination
• Mammograms (x-ray)
• Referral if needed

All patients will be seen and examined by our health department physician. Even though our clinic does not provide treatment for women diagnosed with breast cancer, we do provide referrals to the BRIDGE Breast Cancer Center where eligible patients can receive further evaluation.

Residents of the county who believe they are eligible for this free service should call for an appointment. Please note that we do not take walk-ins for breast screening services. When you call for an appointment, the administrative staff will answer any questions you may have about our services and assess your eligibility over the phone. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early for your appointment.

Our breast screening clinic is located at:
Collin County Health Care Services
825 N. Mc Donald St. # 130
McKinney, Texas 75069

Breast screening services are scheduled by appointment only.

Program Coordinator: Patsy Morris, MHSA

For appointments or questions regarding our services, contact:
Lena Decker
972-548-5524
Email: ldecker@collincountytx.gov

National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (CDC)
The American Cancer Society
The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation