Yes, Mamm! Yes, Cerv! — A Resource for Your Patients Who Need Screening
By Teresa (Tracy) R. Colon, RN, BSN,
Yes Mamm! Yes Cerv! Clinical Program Manager, Oncology Screening Outreach Specialist, RN Ambulatory Care Coordinator

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in Kentucky, just behind lung cancer. While the statistics are sobering, one truth stands firm: early detection saves lives. As trusted physicians, you have an unmatched influence in whether patients pursue screening—and that conversation often begins in your office.

It’s important to remember that family history alone is not an adequate predictor of breast cancer risk. Only about 15% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have a relative with the disease. The majority do not. While lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise play a role, age and sex remain the strongest risk factors. Most breast cancers are diagnosed after age 55, underscoring why screening matters for every woman, not only those with a family history.

Mammography is still our most effective tool. When detected early and still localized, breast cancer carries a five-year survival rate of 99% or higher. Early-stage diagnoses often enable less invasive treatments, better outcomes, and an improved quality of life. By contrast, delayed detection often results in more aggressive treatment and poorer prognoses.

The impact of screening is undeniable. Since 1989, breast cancer mortality has dropped 44%, largely due to mammography and earlier diagnosis. Women who undergo regular screening reduce their risk of death from breast cancer by 26%. These numbers represent the lives of real patients—your patients.

At Saint Joseph Health, we are committed to making screening more accessible. With multiple mammography sites and short scheduling windows, patients can get screened quickly and close to home. Our Breast Care Navigators provide guidance through results, follow-up care, and next steps. For uninsured or underinsured patients, our Yes, Mamm! Yes, Cerv! program offers mammograms—and in some cases treatment—at no cost. Patients can call the HOPE Line at (859) 313-4673 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

This year, we also celebrate a milestone in that mission with the 10th annual Yes, Mamm! Yes, Cerv! 5K. This anniversary event will honor survivors, remember those lost, and raise awareness of the important role screening plays in cancer prevention. Every dollar raised will support the Yes, Mamm! Yes, Cerv! program statewide.

Your role is essential. Many women share that they scheduled their first mammogram only because their physician urged them to do so. Please continue initiating those conversations. Remind your patients that resources exist, regardless of whether they have commercial insurance, Medicare, Medicaid or no coverage at all.

We encourage you to discuss screening with your patients, refer them for mammography, and connect those in need with Yes, Mamm! Yes, Cerv! Together, we can continue to reduce breast cancer deaths and improve outcomes for women in Kentucky.