The Barry-Eaton District Health Department wants to remind the public that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

In a release, BEDHD says that one of the best ways to avoid the second most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in Michigan is to get screened.  Early screening are estimated to reduce breast cancer deaths by 20-25 percent.

BEDHD says that the Brest and Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program (BCCCNP) is available to women in Barry and Eaton Counties, for free.  The program is for women:

Are aged 40–64

Have a limited household income (less than $29,700 for single women, less than $40,050 for a household of two, etc.)

 Do not have health insurance or have health insurance but have co-pays, un-met deductibles, or other cost sharing

As well, the Health Department says that evidence shows that diet and exercise can protect against some cancers.  BEDHD recommends a diet containing high dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. some foods containing these include:

-Dark, Leafy greens

- Fruits

-Whole Grains

-Legumes

For more information, go to BEDHD's website. 

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