By: Juliette Eckler
OMAHA, Neb. — As Nebraska’s breast cancer screening rate remains below the national average, Omaha organizations are providing resources and raising awareness about the financial challenges and health risks associated with breast cancer.
The Pink Lotus Project, an organization that provides community outreach and resources for African American women with breast cancer, kicked off Breast Cancer Awareness Month with its annual Pancake and Health Fair, offering free food and health resources to the community.
“And just living expenses because your world is really turned upside down and you may or may not be able to still work. And so finding more financial support during that time and after is important,” Tisa Hardin-Partridge, CEO of Pink Lotus Project said.
According to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, the state’s breast cancer screening rate is 68%, below the national average of 70.2%.
The department’s 2025-2030 Nebraska Cancer Plan identifies people living in rural or small urban areas and those earning less than $25,000 annually as priority populations.
Along with improving access to resources, local advocates are encouraging people to learn more about their personal breast cancer risks.
“Does anybody have cancer? How old were they? Male or female? A lot of times it’s a common, uncommon age. So breast cancer affects a lot of women in their 60s and 70s,” Denise Ibsen Cole. Founder of the 26.2 Step Mini Marathon, said.
Advocates also encourage breast self-examinations as a no-cost way to notice changes, although self-examinations do not replace recommended medical screenings.
According to the University of Nebraska Medical Center guidance cited in the script, women 40 and older should receive annual breast cancer screenings. Those at higher risk should speak with their doctors about screening options.
Nebraska’s cancer plan aims to increase the state’s breast cancer screening rate to 70.2% by 2030.
