Among Michigan women, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths.
It is a somber reality that too often hits home. In fact, nearly every family, including my own, has been impacted by this terrible disease or knows someone who is fighting breast cancer.
Early detection of breast cancer is critical to improving the chance of survival, yet a very low percentage of Southwest Michigan women ages 40 and older get annual mammograms.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it offers us a chance to boost the number of women in our region who take this important and life-saving step.
As you may have noticed, professional, college and high school sports teams, local and state officials and other organizations are all stepping up to raise awareness. The pink color is bright and its message to women is clear — early detection can save your life.
I encourage every at-risk woman to consult with her doctor on her annual breast checkup and urge all eligible uninsured women to take advantage of an excellent program here southwest Michigan that provides free screenings.
The Southwest Michigan Breast & Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program continues to provide cancer screening and diagnostic services as it has for 23 years. Through 2015, the program has screened more than 10,000 southwest Michigan women.
To be eligible for a free screening, a woman must be uninsured, be age 40 to 64 and meet certain income guidelines.
To locate a participating clinic in southwest Michigan or for more information about the program, residents can call BCCCNP at (269) 373-5213 or toll-free at 1-888-243-4087. Details are also available at www.kalcounty.com/hcs/bcccnp.
As we recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let us celebrate those who have won their fight with breast cancer, stand in full support of those currently battling this serious disease and remember the friends and loved ones we have lost.

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents southwest Michigan.