New York State has exceeded the national goal for breast cancer screening for the first time since 2020, according to an announcement from the New York State Department of Health. Data from the New York State Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System indicate that 81.9 percent of females aged 50-74 are up to date with breast cancer screening, surpassing the national target of 80.3 percent.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald commented on the achievement, stating, “This is a real public health success story. More New Yorkers are getting screened, and that means more cancers are being detected earlier. We’re proud to surpass the national screening goal, but we know there’s more work ahead to close gaps in access and advance health equity.”
In 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation to expand insurance coverage for breast cancer screening and imaging. The new law requires insurance plans to cover procedures recommended by nationally recognized clinical practice guidelines for breast cancer detection. Additional measures have also been advanced to ensure insurance coverage for services needed by breast cancer survivors.
Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among females in New York State. Each year, approximately 17,000 females are diagnosed with breast cancer and about 2,500 die from the disease. It is estimated that one in eight females will develop breast cancer during their lifetime, making it the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among females in the state.
Health officials emphasize that mammograms are the most effective method for early detection of breast cancer. Guidelines recommend starting mammograms at age 40 and repeating them at least every other year through age 74. These recommendations also apply to transgender males and nonbinary individuals assigned female at birth. Individuals with certain genetic markers, a history of breast growths or lumps, or a previous diagnosis should consult their health care provider about when and how often to be screened.
The New York State Cancer Consortium, facilitated by the Department of Health through a grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, brings together more than 400 members working on cancer prevention, education, and screening initiatives across the state.
More information on breast cancer, including symptoms, treatment options, and resources, as well as state cancer statistics and reports, is available online.
