Breast Cancer
In Louisiana
Louisiana has one of the nation’s highest female breast cancer mortality rates, making it a serious public health challenge in our state. Regular mammography screening saves lives by finding breast cancer early when treatment is most effective, and outcomes are more favorable.
Our Focus
Louisiana Cancer Prevention & Control Programs (LCP) is a statewide effort dedicated to reducing the impact of cancer in Louisiana. Our work focuses on three key areas: prevention, early detection, and access to care. Breast cancer is a key priority, with programs designed to help residents get screened earlier, navigate the healthcare system more easily, and receive timely follow-up and support.
Expanding Access to Breast Cancer Screening
LCP helps eligible women receive no-cost breast cancer screening services, including mammograms and diagnostic follow-up when needed. By prioritizing women who are uninsured, underinsured, or face financial and logistical barriers, we’re working to make life-saving screening more accessible across Louisiana.
Patient Navigation and Support
Patient navigation is a central part of our team’s efforts. Experienced navigators work one-on-one with participants to help:
- schedule appointments
- coordinate services
- arrange transportation or related assistance
- understand screening results and recommended next steps
Improving Screening Rates in Healthcare Settings
LCP also partners with healthcare providers and clinics throughout Louisiana to improve breast cancer screening rates using evidence-based quality improvement strategies. These partnerships help clinics strengthen screening workflows, increase patient outreach, and ensure more Louisiana residents are offered and successfully complete recommended screenings.
Education, Outreach and Awareness
Community education and outreach efforts are key to raising awareness about breast cancer risk factors, the importance of regular screening, and available services. Through this work, we engage with community organizations, healthcare providers, and policymakers to promote consistent screening practices and reduce gaps in access to care.
Support for Survivors and Caregivers
Beyond screening, LCP works with partners to connect breast cancer survivors and caregivers to trusted resources, education, and peer support. These efforts help individuals navigate life during and after treatment.
Data-Driven Planning and Statewide Collaboration
Louisiana Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan provides a statewide roadmap for coordinated cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and survivorship efforts. Through its involvement in developing and implementing the plan, LCP helps ensure Louisiana-specific cancer data inform planning, track progress, and strengthen breast cancer outcomes across communities.
What To Know About Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in Louisiana and the second leading cause of cancer-related death. Nationally, nearly one in eight women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer during their lifetime, making it essential for all women to understand their risk and the available screening options.
In Louisiana, African American women are diagnosed more frequently and experience higher mortality than the national average. These disparities can be linked to reduced access to screening, later-stage diagnoses, and other socioeconomic factors.
Finding breast cancer early can make all the difference. When detected through regular screening, survival rates are nearly 100 percent, showing just how powerful and life-saving early detection can be.
Breast Cancer Can Affect Men, Too.
Although breast cancer occurs far less frequently in men, it can and does occur. Awareness of risk factors, symptoms, and family history plays an important role in timely diagnosis and treatment.
What You Can Do
Regular screening is the most effective strategy for preventing breast cancer deaths. LCP provides no-cost mammograms to eligible Louisiana women. Women may qualify for LCP services if they:
- are ages 40–64 and due for screening
- have breast symptoms or concerns
- have a strong family history of breast cancer
- are underinsured and need help with copays or transportation
Know The Signs
If you notice changes in your breasts, talk to your doctor right away. Symptoms may include:
- a new lump in the breast or underarm
- thickening or swelling of part of the breast
- skin irritation or dimpling
- redness or flaky skin near the nipple
- nipple discharge (not breast milk)
- changes in breast size or shape
- breast pain
Recognizing these signs early can lead to prompt diagnosis and better outcomes.
Research, Data & Resources
For those seeking more in-depth information, LCP provides access to trusted reports and data sources. These include:
- Louisiana Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan
- Louisiana Department of Health (LDH)
- NIH breast cancer resources and FDA breast cancer updates
Whether you’re a researcher, healthcare provider, community partner, or member of the general public, these resources offer credible information to support improved decision-making and prevention efforts.
Community & Statewide Efforts
Across Louisiana, community-based partnerships play a vital role in preventing cancer and other chronic diseases by addressing the conditions that influence health where people live and work. The Louisiana Healthy Communities Coalition supports this work through a statewide network of local coalitions focused on improving community health and preventing chronic disease.