The Centers for Disease Control have reported an 87% drop in breast cancer screenings and 84% decrease in cervical cancer screenings in the U.S. in April 2020 compared to the previous five years.
Many screening tests for women are performed or ordered during their annual physicals or gynecological exams, routine appointments that many skipped during the first year of the pandemic.
In response to the CDC’s report, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is urging Michigan women to connect with their doctors and schedule an appointment for their yearly exams if they are behind.
Screening tests for breast and cervical cancer enable healthcare providers to discover abnormalities early which leads to better outcomes for patients.
Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy for Health at MDHHS, said, “Simple, proactive measures can catch cancer in its early stages and allow doctors to intervene before it progresses.”
Those interested in getting a head start on their health screening can attend the Community Health Fair at Lake Huron Medical Center on August 26, 2021 from 1-6 PM at the main hospital at 2601 Electric Avenue in Port Huron.
The Lake Huron Medical Center Community Health Fair is offering free breast health screenings, blood pressure testing, and diabetes education.
Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand
