Free Mammograms Houston, Texas

Accessing Free Mammograms in Houston, Texas: A Comprehensive Guide for Women

If you live in Houston, Texas, and cannot afford a mammogram, be aware that various reliable resources offer this critical screening at low-cost or no-cost. Understanding your options can aid in early detection of breast cancer, even if you're uninsured or under-insured. Consider the following resources available to you as a Houston resident.

The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP)

Run by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the NBCCEDP provides low-income, uninsured, and underserved women access to screening and diagnostic services, including mammograms. Specifically in Texas, this service is provided through the Breast and Cervical Cancer Services (BCCS) program. For more information about finding a provider, visit NBCCEDP's website.

The Rose Houston

The Rose Houston, a non-profit breast health organization offers state-of-the-art care including mammograms, irrespective of your ability to pay. Support from patrons and partnerships with local hospitals enable them to offer free and low-cost mammograms to eligible women across 35 Texas counties. Visit their website for details about qualifying for these services.

Susan G. Komen Houston

Houston’s Susan G. Komen affiliate is committed to reducing breast cancer deaths within the local community. They provide funds to local non-profits and clinics that offer free or low-cost mammograms and diagnostic services. Consult their website to find a provider near you.

Breast Cancer Facts and Early Detection in Houston

According to the Texas Cancer Registry, in 2018, Houston reported roughly 3,200 cases of female breast cancer that resulted in 600 deaths. The need for mammograms, therefore, cannot be underestimated. Regular mammograms are the most effective early detection method against breast cancer. Most sources recommend that women aged 40 and older should get a mammogram every year. However, if you carry a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, or if breast cancer is common in your family, your doctor might advise you to start screenings earlier and more frequently.

Steps Women Should Take to Get Screened

Here are steps women should take to push for early detection of breast cancer:

1. Understand your risk: Consult your healthcare provider about your personal risk of breast cancer.
2. Stay vigilant about breast self-exams: Know what is normal for you and report any changes to your health provider promptly.
3. Eat a healthy diet and maintain an active lifestyle: Proper nutrition and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy body weight, which reduces your risk of breast cancer.
4. Don’t skip regular check-ups: All women should have regular check-ups that include a breast exam and, in some cases, a mammogram
5. Access free or low-cost mammograms: If finances are a concern, take advantage of the options provided within this article.

Conclusion

Whether you're insured, uninsured, or under-insured, living in Houston, Texas, means you have access to life-saving mammograms to ensure early detection of breast cancer. Reach out to your local service provider, clinic, non-profit organization, or government program and make sure you are on top of your health, keeping regular check-ups and screenings a priority.