May 12, 2025
Since 1995, the Maine CDC Breast and Cervical Health Program has helped clients access timely breast and cervical cancer screening, diagnostic, and treatment services. The program recently expanded eligibility to include qualifying women ages 21 and older -- lowering the previous age threshold of 35.
This change reduces the risk of undiagnosed cancers and the associated consequences of pain, illness, and premature death. It also addresses two critical public health considerations:
- Health guidelines recommend cervical cancer screening begin at age 21.
- Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer rates have increased significantly, with female breast cancer accounting for 22% of all AYA cancer cases.
"Cancer screening helps diagnose disease early, even before we feel pain or experience symptoms. This is when treatment can be most effective," said Maine CDC Director Dr. Puthiery Va. "Catching cancer early helps us, our families, and our friends avoid physically and emotionally challenging experiences and expensive treatments."
To date, the Maine CDC Breast and Cervical Health Program has served nearly 30,000 clients, providing more than 80,000 mammograms and 51,000 Pap/HPV tests. The program's income eligibility threshold is higher than that of standard MaineCare, and assistance is also available to clients with private insurance who face out-of-pocket costs--such as deductibles and copayments--for recommended diagnostic services.
For clients diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer or precancer who are uninsured or lose insurance due to life changes, a Patient Navigator can help determine eligibility for full health care coverage under Maine's Treatment Act.
Program services are funded through the federal National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program and state-matching funds.
To apply for this expanded benefit, call 1-800-350-5180 (TTY 711) or email MBCHP.DHHS@maine.gov.