Senator Nozzolio Promotes Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Seneca Falls - In recognition of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, New York State Senator Michael Nozzolio is reminding his constituents to contact their health care providers to receive regular screenings for breast cancer. “Breast cancer is more treatable the earlier it is detected,” said Senator Nozzolio, “it is vitally important that people discuss screening options with their doctors.”

190,000 women and nearly 2,000 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the United States. The disease sadly claims the life of 40,000 women and men annually and is the second leading cause of death amongst women. Regular screenings and early detection greatly increases an individual’s chance of recovery from the disease.

Because of the importance of breast cancer awareness, Senator Nozzolio has supported numerous efforts to help encourage early detection and regular screening. Senator Nozzolio recently secured a $500,000 New York State grant for Auburn Memorial Hospital for their new digital mammography unit. Senator Nozzolio also secured more than $40,000 for the Breast Cancer Coalition in Rochester and was instrumental in enacting legislation establishing a means for New York State residents to designate a portion of their State income tax refund for breast cancer screening and research. These efforts have raised over $5 million dollars.

Senator Nozzolio is also urging everyone to take advantage of the New York Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline. The Hotline, which can be reached at 1-800-877-8077, provides people with information regarding low-cost and free mammogram services in their community as well as answers questions and concerns about breast cancer. Senator Nozzolio commented, “This is simply an incredible service that gives great information regarding early detection, mammography, physicians, insurance and local support groups.”

“Certainly there is nothing more important than the health and well-being of our citizens,” concluded Senator Nozzolio, “we must continue to educate everyone on the importance of early detection and promote breast cancer awareness. This October, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we need to reach out to our loved ones and ensure everyone remembers to get the screening and care they need.”