Congresswoman Maxine Waters Highlights Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) today recognizes October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of early detection, increased access to quality healthcare, and the need for comprehensive information for patients. Breast cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women in the United States, and Congresswoman Waters remains committed to supporting initiatives that reduce health disparities and ensure equitable care for all.

"Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time for us to honor the survivors, remember those we've lost, and renew our commitment to fighting this devastating disease," said Congresswoman Maxine Waters. "Early detection saves lives, and it is crucial that women have access to the information, screenings, and treatments they need—regardless of their socioeconomic status or where they live."

Congresswoman Waters has been a longtime advocate for equitable healthcare, beginning with her work in the California State Assembly. She fought big insurance companies and coalesced lawmakers to pass AB 3548 in 1978, which requires insurance companies to cover reconstructive surgery or prosthetic devices for women who have undergone mastectomies.

Since then, Congresswoman Waters has helped secure funding to expand breast cancer screening and supportive services. She has continued her efforts to expand federal funding for breast cancer research and programs like those which provide free mammograms for low-income and uninsured women.
Recent statistics indicate promising strides in the fight against breast cancer. Breast cancer death rates are down 44% since the 1980s, but there is still much more work to be done, particularly around disparities in patient access and care. For example, African American women are still 38% more likely to die from breast cancer, largely due to later diagnoses and limited access to quality treatment. Congresswoman Waters remains committed to addressing these disparities and ensuring that every woman receives timely care.

"I am deeply concerned about the tragic and unacceptable health disparities related to breast cancer," said Congresswoman Waters. "That is why I have introduced the Medicaid Breast Cancer Access to Treatment Act, which requires state Medicaid programs throughout the United States to cover breast and cervical cancer treatment services for low-income patients without cost sharing. The bill also requires state Medicaid programs to cover breast reconstruction following a medically necessary mastectomy.”

"I have also heard from constituents in my District as well as survivors from across the country who were either unaware or uninformed of the full scope of options available to them prior to undergoing a mastectomy," said Congresswoman Waters. "That is why I have also introduced the Medicare Breast Reconstruction Access and Information Act, which requires doctors who perform mastectomies for Medicare patients to inform them that Medicare covers breast reconstruction following a medically necessary mastectomy."

Patients who receive thorough information are more likely to make informed decisions that align with their individual preferences, leading to greater satisfaction and an improved quality of life following surgery. Despite these clear benefits,

only a small proportion of breast cancer patients are currently making well-informed choices regarding breast reconstruction, underscoring the need for stronger shared decision-making processes between healthcare providers and patients.

Congresswoman Waters encourages everyone to participate in Breast Cancer Awareness Month by learning about the risk factors, supporting those impacted by the disease, and ensuring loved ones are getting screened. Together, we can work toward a future free of breast cancer.