October named Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The City of Milwaukee has officially declared October 2023 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The proclamation aims to raise awareness of the disease and available resources and was declared at the Frank P. Zeidler Municipal Building on Friday, Oct. 27.

Breast cancer is the leading cause of death for women globally, according to the World Health Organization.

Significant disparities exist in the community, with the American Cancer Society noting that Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer, while Latina women are often diagnosed at later stages.

Dominique Hyatt-Oates, manager of the Milwaukee Breast & Cervical Cancer Awareness Program, spoke at the proclamation, noting that the city's health department offers financial assistance for screenings.

"We provide free breast cancer screenings to persons who are low income, are uninsured, and are within the ages of 40 to 64 with some exceptions for people starting at 35," Hyatt-Oates noted. 

The city operates two 'Well Women' facilities offering such services. More information can be found by clicking here.