(Santa Ana) - A single telephone number is available to help Orange County women who meet age and income guidelines access breast cancer screening and diagnostic services.

By calling 1-800-511-2300, Orange County women can receive eligibility information about free clinical breast examinations and mammograms from the Orange County Breast Cancer Partnership (OCBCP). OCBCP provides free breast cancer screening and diagnostic services to women who meet age and income guidelines. The partnership also works closely with the California Breast Cancer Treatment Fund and the Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Foundation, Orange County Chapter, to provide referrals for breast cancer treatment.

Early detection remains the best defense against breast cancer. "Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among Orange County women, and women must make a breast health program a priority for life," stated Orange County Health Officer Dr. Mark Horton. "The American Cancer Society recommends that women begin breast self-examination and have a routine examination by a physician at age 20, with annual mammograms beginning at age 40," said Dr. Horton.

Statewide, 60 percent of women ages 40 and older had a mammogram in 1999. However, Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander and African-American women of screening age were less likely to report having a mammogram in the last year. The most recent Orange County Health Needs Assessment shows that almost 60 percent of women have had a mammogram during their lifetime, but the number having a mammogram in the past year was significantly lower.

During the observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, a dozen free breast cancer screening events were held in Orange County. This included an event sponsored by OCBCP and the Asian Pacific Islander Task Force at which over 60 women received free mammograms.