New York State has exceeded the national goal for breast cancer screening rates, according to an announcement from the New York State Department of Health. Recent data show that 81.9 percent of females aged 50-74 in New York are up to date with recommended breast cancer screenings, surpassing the national target of 80.3 percent.
The data were collected through the New York State Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and reflect ongoing efforts by the Department, healthcare providers, and advocates to increase screening rates, especially in communities with limited access to care.
“This is a real public health success story,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “More New Yorkers are getting screened, and that means more cancers are being detected earlier. We’re proud to surpass the national screening goal, but we know there’s more work ahead to close gaps in access and advance health equity.”
In 2024, Governor Hochul enacted legislation broadening insurance coverage for breast cancer screening and imaging to align with nationally recognized clinical guidelines. The state has also introduced measures ensuring insurance support for services needed by breast cancer survivors.
Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among females in New York State. Each year, about 17,000 females are diagnosed with breast cancer in New York, and approximately 2,500 die from the disease. Statistics indicate that one in eight females will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. It is also noted as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among females in the state.
Health guidelines recommend that females begin mammograms at age 40 and continue at least every other year through age 74. These recommendations also apply to transgender males and nonbinary individuals assigned female at birth. Individuals with certain risk factors—such as genetic markers like BRCA1 or BRCA2, a history of breast growths or lumps, or a previous diagnosis—should consult their healthcare provider about when to start screening and whether additional tests are needed.
The New York State Cancer Consortium is a network consisting of over 400 members who collaborate on strategies for cancer prevention, education, and screening across the state. The Department of Health coordinates this group through funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further details about breast cancer symptoms, treatment options, resources, as well as statistics and reports on cancer in New York State are available online.
