Show Me Healthy Women
Free Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings
What is SMHW?
Show Me Healthy Women (SMHW) offers free breast and cervical cancer screenings for Missouri women who meet age, income and insurance guidelines.
Show Me Healthy Women (SMHW) began in 1992, and is Missouri’s implementation of the National Breast and
Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.
SMHW is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and several national, regional and local partner organizations.
Program Guidelines
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Income at or below 250 percent of the federal poverty level for household income, and
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Age 35 to 64, or older if they do not receive Medicare Part B, and
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No insurance to cover program services
What is a breast cancer screening?
What is a breast cancer screening?
A breast cancer screening refers to a set of tests used to detect the presence of breast cancer in individuals who do not have any symptoms. These tests can include mammograms, ultrasound, MRI scans and/or biopsy testing.
Who should get a breast cancer screening?
Who should get a breast cancer screening?
The American Cancer Society recommends that women at average risk of breast cancer begin annual mammograms at age 45 and then switch to biennial (every two years) mammography after the age of 55, or sooner if recommended by their healthcare provider. Women who are considered high-risk may need to start mammograms earlier and/or have additional tests.
Are there any side effects associated with breast cancer screening?
Most people do not experience any serious side effects from a breast cancer screening. However, there is a small risk of feeling discomfort during the procedure or experiencing false-positive results that can lead to additional testing and worry.
What other steps can I take to detect breast cancer?
In addition to regular screenings, self-exams can also be useful in detecting breast cancer. Women should familiarize themselves with the look and feel of their breasts so that they can identify any changes or abnormalities. Additionally, it is important to be aware of any family history of breast cancer and to discuss this with your doctor. Keeping up on these preventive steps can help detect any potential signs of breast cancer early and ensure the best possible outcome.
What is a cervical cancer screening?
What is a cervical cancer screening?
A cervical cancer screening is an examination used to detect abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix that could potentially lead to cervical cancer. This can be done through a Pap test, which looks for precancerous cell changes, or an HPV test, which looks for the human papillomavirus (HPV) that can cause cervical cancer.
How often should I get a cervical cancer screening?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women ages 21 to 65 get a Pap test every three years, or an HPV test every five years if desired. Women over the age of 65 who have had regular screenings in the past may not need to be tested.
What are the risks associated with cervical cancer screening?
The risks associated with cervical cancer screening are minimal and include discomfort during the procedure, pain after the procedure, and a small chance of bleeding or infection. However, these risks are greatly outweighed by the potential benefit of getting an early diagnosis and treatment if needed.
Is it possible to have cervical cancer without any symptoms?
Yes, it is possible to have cervical cancer without any symptoms in its early stages. That is why regular screenings are so important; they can help detect abnormalities before the cancer has a chance to progress. If you do experience any symptoms of cervical cancer, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding or pelvic pain, it is important to speak with your doctor right away.
How To Schedule An Appointment
You can contact any of our clinics below to schedule your screenings today!
• Northeast Family Health - Kirksville
660-627-4493
• OB/GYN Specialty Group - Kirksville
660-665-3547
• Macon Family Health - Macon
660-395-5045
• Northeast Family Health - Milan
660-265-1042
• Edina Family Health - Edina
660-397-3517