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Breast Cancer Awareness license plate sales support screening, early detection

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 21, 2018

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112 

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is encouraging Michigan motorists to adorn their vehicles with a “pink ribbon” plate to raise awareness and ensure all women have access to breast cancer screening.

The Breast Cancer Awareness license plate features the pink ribbon, widely known as the symbol for breast cancer awareness, along with an important screening message, ‘Early Detection Saves Lives.’

“As a breast cancer survivor myself, I know just how critical early detection is to survival,” First Lady Sue Snyder said. “It’s important that we work together to ensure all Michigan women have access to potentially life-saving services. Early detection saves lives, and I am hopeful this license plate will continue to help make a difference for women across Michigan.”

A portion of the sales from the plate - $25 when a plate is first bought and $10 each time it is renewed - benefits MDHHS’s breast and cervical cancer screening program.

“This program provides access to women in underserved populations to this important, and possibly life-saving health resource,” said Dr. Eden Wells, MDHHS chief medical executive. “We encourage all women to talk with their doctor, because with regular screening breast cancer is more likely to be detected at an earlier stage when it is most treatable.”

In 2018, the American Cancer Society estimates 8,730 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed and 1,400 women will die from the disease in Michigan. Most insurance plans cover breast cancer screening, and women are urged to contact their doctor about screening options.

For more information about the breast cancer awareness license plate, visit a Secretary of State branch office near you or access the form online. Learn more about MDHHS’s breast and cervical cancer screening program.

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