The Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (BCCEDP) at the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County provides no-cost breast and cervical cancer screening exams, including mammograms, pap smears, pelvic exams, and clinical breast exams, to women who are 50 to 64 years of age, low income, and uninsured or under-insured.
Early detection is the key to successful diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer and cervical cancer.
Screening Guidelines:
- Women need their first pap test at the age of 21 regardless of sexual activity.
- Women need a pap test every three to five years after the first test as long as the test results continue to be normal.
- Women 20 years and over should have their breasts checked once a year by a health care professional.
- Women over age 40 should have a mammogram once a year.