Underserved and underinsured women will have access to critical services for preventing, diagnosing and treating breast cancer, thanks to a $45,000 grant to Michigan State University from the Mid-Michigan Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
The new grant marks four years of funding for the program, administered by the Department of Surgery in MSU’s College of Human Medicine. The effort focuses on women under 40 in Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Shiawassee and Jackson counties.
“We have been fortunate to have funding since 2009 to provide essential breast services to about 100 women each year in mid-Michigan,” said Mary Smania, project manager for the grant, nurse practitioner in the Department of Surgery and assistant professor in the College of Nursing.
“These are women who would have no other care for breast health concerns if not for our program and the support of Komen Mid-Michigan.”
The program’s resources include diagnostic services such as mammograms, ultrasounds and biopsies through the MSU Department of Radiology, as well as surgery for qualifying patients through MSU HealthTeam and Sparrow Hospital.
Smania said the program also brings peace of mind to women who otherwise might lack the tools to navigate breast health issues.
“Our exit surveys demonstrate a decrease in the women’s worries and an increase in their understanding of breast care,” she said.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest breast cancer organization, and the Mid-Michigan affiliate is one of 123 dedicated to ending breast cancer in their communities. Komen affiliates fund programs that help women and men overcome the cultural, social, educational and financial barriers to breast cancer screening and treatment.