New York has exceeded a national breast cancer screening goal for the second year in a row, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Oct. 2, as the state marked Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a renewed push for early detection, including the importance of New York breast cancer screening.

The announcement cites an estimate that nearly 82 percent of New York females ages 50 through 74 are up to date with breast cancer screening recommendations. That figure describes a specific age group. It does not mean 82 percent of all New Yorkers have been screened.

For residents of Utica, Rome and the wider Mohawk Valley, the practical message is to review their screening needs and ask about help if cost or insurance is a barrier. New York’s Cancer Services Program connects eligible residents with screening and diagnostic services through participating providers, emphasizing the significance of New York breast cancer screening.

The state’s progress also leaves work to do. A strong statewide percentage does not tell an individual patient whether they are due for a mammogram, and it does not establish that every community has the same access to care.

Screening recommendations begin before the age group in the statistic

The New York State Department of Health’s breast cancer screening guidance describes a mammogram every other year from age 40 through 74 under the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommendation. The governor’s screening statistic covers ages 50 through 74, a narrower group.

Readers should not interpret that statistical age range as a reason to wait until 50. Screening decisions should be discussed with a health care provider, especially when personal history or inherited risk could change the schedule.

The state guidance identifies exceptions for people with certain high-risk genetic markers, a history of high-dose chest radiation at a young age, a previous breast cancer diagnosis or particular high-risk breast lesions. Those patients need a screening plan based on their provider’s advice.

The guidance also addresses transgender men and nonbinary people assigned female at birth. A useful conversation focuses on a person’s medical history and screening needs rather than assumptions about who should receive care.

Why screening and follow-up both matter

A screening mammogram looks for signs of breast cancer before symptoms develop. The Department of Health describes mammography as a low-dose breast X-ray that can help find cancer when treatment may be more effective.

Screening does not prevent breast cancer. It is also different from evaluating a new symptom. A person who notices a concerning change should contact a health care provider rather than waiting for the next routine screening date.

An abnormal screening result is not itself a cancer diagnosis. Additional evaluation may be needed to determine what a finding means. The state Cancer Services Program explains that eligible patients can receive follow-up diagnostic services and help from a case manager.

That follow-through is an important part of access. Scheduling an initial mammogram is one step; knowing how results will arrive and whom to contact with questions helps patients stay connected to care afterward.

How to find help paying for screening

The New York State Cancer Services Program provides eligible residents with breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening and diagnostic services at no cost. Eligibility includes age and income rules, along with insurance-related criteria.

The program serves uninsured people and may also help people whose insurance cost-sharing prevents them from obtaining screening or diagnostic services. It is not an automatic benefit for every applicant, so residents should ask the program to review their circumstances.

For breast cancer screening, the state lists services for people age 40 and older, as well as some younger people at high risk as determined by a New York-licensed health care provider under program guidelines.

Residents can call 1-866-442-2262 to connect with a Cancer Services Program near them. The state says the call is free and operators are available around the clock, with Spanish and other language assistance available.

Another option is the Department of Health’s county-by-county program directory. Mohawk Valley readers can select their county and contact the listed program directly. The state says participating providers offer services in every county and New York City borough.

A practical plan for making an appointment

Start by checking when and where you last had a mammogram. If you do not remember, ask your health care provider or previous imaging office. Explain any personal or family history that could affect the recommendation.

Next, ask which facility can perform the appropriate test and whether a referral or order is needed. If payment is a concern, contact your insurer or the Cancer Services Program before assuming you must cover the full cost yourself.

When booking, ask what documents to bring, how to arrange any needed language or accessibility assistance and how previous images can be made available. Confirm the appointment date, location and arrival instructions.

Finally, ask how results will be delivered and what to do if they do not arrive when expected. If further testing is recommended, request a clear explanation of the next step and any available help coordinating it.

Insurance coverage and treatment support

The Department of Health says nearly all health plans cover breast cancer screening without a patient charge, including New York Medicaid. Coverage details can depend on the plan and service, so patients should confirm the rules for their own appointment and any additional imaging.

The governor’s announcement also points to legislation signed in 2024 expanding screening and imaging coverage under nationally recognized guidelines. Readers can review the state’s breast cancer screening rights brochure for further information.

If cancer is found, some eligible patients may qualify for the Medicaid Cancer Treatment Program. A screening program representative or treating provider can explain the application process. Eligibility for a screening service should not be treated as a guarantee of eligibility for every treatment benefit.

Awareness beyond the pink lights

Hochul directed landmarks to shine pink on the evening of Oct. 2, including the State Fairgrounds’ main gate and Expo Center, Empire State Plaza, Niagara Falls and several bridges and transportation facilities.

The lighting recognizes patients, survivors and families. The useful next step for an individual reader is more personal: ask whether screening is due, understand the recommended schedule and seek help if cost is keeping care out of reach.

This article provides general health information. A health care professional can help determine the screening plan appropriate to an individual’s history and risk.

Source

Read the official Oct. 2, 2026 announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul’s office.