Since 1995, the Rhode Island Women's Cancer Screening Program has provided no-cost pelvic exams, Pap tests, clinical breast exams, and mammograms (breast x-rays) to eligible women in the State. The program also covers diagnostic tests, methods used to identify diseases. The goal of the program is to identify women with precancerous breast or cervical conditions or cancer during the early stages. Eligible women who are under age 65, enrolled, screened, and diagnosed through the program with a precancerous condition or a diagnosis of cancer of the breast or cervix may apply for Medical Assistance to cover the cost of treatment.

To date, over 16,000 unduplicated women have been screened through the Program. Of that number approximately 3,000 – 3,500 women receive breast and/or cervical cancer screening annually.

The Rhode Island Women's Cancer Screening Program is funded primarily by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, GA and is managed by the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH). Program screening services funded by the CDC focus on eligible women ages 50-64 however women are provided services beginning at age 40. A State appropriation provides HEALTH with funding to assist in extending breast screening services to eligible women ages 40-49.

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Highlights

Cancer in Rhode Island, 2003
is a comprehensive report that includes cancer rates, risk factors, prevention, screening, treatment, and survival rates for each cancer site/type.

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