Breast Cancer Awareness Month
LA County proclaimed October as “Breast Cancer Awareness Month.” Access information and resources below.
Health Services
Stay Up to Date with Your Screenings!
Join the fight! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer screenings can help find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat.
Mammograms are a special kind of x-ray that checks for changes in the breast.
- Women between 40 and 74 years old and at average risk for breast cancer, should get a mammogram every 2 years.
- Some people may need them more often. Talk to your doctor to find out what’s right for you.
- Some men may also need a mammogram, especially if they have symptoms like a lump or a strong family history of breast cancer. If you’re unsure, ask your doctor.
Keep up to date with regular mammograms to stay healthy. Call the Department of Health Services central scheduling line at 888-804-3228 to book your screening mammogram.
For more information, visit the Breast Cancer Screening section on the LA Health Services website.
Public Health
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer happens when cells in the breast grow out of control. These cells can form a lump (tumor) and sometimes spread to other parts of the body. It usually begins in the milk ducts or glands. While it is more common in women, men can also get breast cancer.
Signs and Symptoms
- A new lump in the breast or underarm
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin dimpling or puckering
- Nipple changes (redness, discharge, or pulling inward)
- Pain in the breast or nipple area
Who’s at Risk?
Anyone can get breast cancer, but some factors increase risk:
- Getting older
- Family history of breast cancer
- Hormones (estrogen, progesterone)
- Lifestyle choices like smoking, alcohol, or poor diet
- Environmental exposures (pollution, toxins)
What Can We Do?
- Get screened: Regular mammograms and check-ups help find cancer early.
- Know your body: Be aware of what’s normal for you and report changes to a doctor.
- Live healthy: Eat well, exercise, and avoid smoking and alcohol.
- Support each other: Share information and encourage friends and family to get screened.
Free and low-cost breast cancer screenings are available in Los Angeles County through programs like Every Woman Counts and 211 LA.
Download and share with your friends, family, or community:
For more information, please visit: https://publichealth.lacounty.gov/owh/BreastCancer.htm
Additional Resources:
- American Cancer Society’s ACS CARES™ app
- 24/7 Cancer Helpline: 1-800-227-2345
LA County Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk
For more information, click here.
Public Social Services
Medi-Cal covers cancer screenings, including mammograms, radiation, and chemotherapy. Know your rights to cancer treatment under Medi-Cal and schedule your mammogram screening today through your BenefitsCal account. Learn more about DPSS Medi-Cal services at Health Care.