NBCCEDP: A Line of Defense for Women's Health

NBCCEDP: A Line of Defense for Women's Health

Breast cancer and cervical cancer screening cannot wait🔽

Early detection can save lives. For millions of women across the United States, breast and cervical cancer screening is more than just a health check-up; it’s an important step toward protecting the future. Several national programs led by organizations such as the CDC, NBCF, and ACS provide low-cost cancer screening services to women who are uninsured, underinsured, or financially disadvantaged.

🩺 What is NBCCEDP?

The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP), launched by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is a public health program for low-income, uninsured, or underinsured women across the United States.

Since 1991, the program has provided services to over 6 million women, leading to the early detection and treatment of thousands of cancers and precancerous lesions.


🔍 Why Are Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings So Important?

These two cancers are common among women, but they share one crucial trait — early detection can save lives.

  • Breast Cancer:

    Early detection can raise the cure rate to over 90%.

  • Cervical Cancer:

    Usually caused by HPV infection, it progresses slowly, and screening can stop cancer before it starts.

Most women show no symptoms in early stages. By the time symptoms appear, it’s often too late.

Regular screening = invisible safety net


💡 What Services Does NBCCEDP Provide?

This program is more than just a single test — it’s a comprehensive health management service:

Service TypeDescription
🧪 Cancer ScreeningMammograms, Pap tests, HPV tests
🧭 Diagnostic SupportFurther exams if screening is abnormal — e.g., ultrasound, biopsy
🧑‍⚕️ Referral ServiceReferral to qualified local medical providers for diagnosis and treatment
📋 Health EducationPromoting health knowledge and self-care awareness

👩‍⚕️ Who Is Eligible?(You don’t have to worry about cost or low-cost screening)

NBCCEDP is designed for:

  • Women aged 40–64 (for breast cancer screening)

  • Women aged 21–64 (for cervical cancer screening)

  • Women with no insurance or insufficient coverage

  • Income below 250% of the federal poverty level

Some women younger or older may still be eligible — check with your local program.

NBCCEDP services are available in all 50 U.S. states, including:

  • Washington D.C.

  • American Samoa

  • Guam

  • Northern Mariana Islands

  • Puerto Rico

  • U.S. Virgin Islands

  • 13 Indian tribes and tribal organizations


✅ Six Major Health Benefits of Screening

BenefitDetails
✅ Early DetectionIncreases cure rate, lowers treatment burden
✅ Reduce MortalityNational data confirms screening saves lives
✅ Avoid Invasive TreatmentPre-cancer or early-stage cases may not need chemo or surgery
✅ Save Medical CostsTreating early cancer is far cheaper than late-stage
✅ Peace of MindKnow your health status, reduce anxiety
✅ Family Health ProtectionKeeps women strong — the heart of many families


Other national low-cost mammography programs

Program NameOrganizerTarget GroupServices Provided
NBCCEDP
National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Low-income, uninsured, or underinsured womenMammograms, cervical cancer screening, diagnostic follow-up and referrals
NBCF
National Breast Cancer Foundation Screening Program
National Breast Cancer FoundationLow-income, uninsured, or underinsured womenMammograms, 3D mammography, clinical breast exams, ultrasound, limited biopsies
ACS
American Cancer Society Screening Resources
American Cancer SocietyUnderserved and high-risk womenInformation and local referral for mammogram screening services

📞 How to Get Started

  1. Find Your Local Program

    Use the [CDC screening program directory] to find your state’s contact info.

  2. Apply for Services

    Provide personal and income info as required.

  3. Schedule Your Screening

    Once approved, get a low-cost mammogram or Pap test at a designated clinic.


💬 Need help or want to learn about resources in your area?

Feel free to contact your local health department or visit the CDC's official NBCCEDP page.