October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The official theme for Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026 is “Every story is unique, every journey matters.”
The theme focuses on the personalized experience of dealing with breast cancer. It recognizes that every diagnosis affects individuals and families differently, meaning there is no single or uniform breast cancer experience.
According to the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, except for skin cancers. It accounts for 30% (or one in three) of all new female cancers each year.
The American Cancer Society’s estimates for breast cancer in the United States for 2026 are:
● About 321,910 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the U.S. as well as 60,730 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer.
● About 42,140 women will die from breast cancer in the U.S.
● The average risk of a woman in the US developing breast cancer sometime in her life is about 13%. This means there is a one in eight chance she will develop breast cancer.
RaeAnn Tucker, director of health promotion for the health departments, said, “When considering facts such as these it’s obvious that we, in the public health field, must emphasize the importance of early detection and screening.”
Breast cancer is the second most common kind of cancer in women. The good news is that many women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. “Therefore, the health department encourages women to partner with a friend or family member to remind each other to practice monthly breast self-exam and make annual clinical exams and mammogram appointments,” said Tucker.
The First Choice Healthcare Clinics of Kewanee and Toulon can provide annual physical exams to area women, including a clinical breast exam and pap smear. The clinic accepts most insurances and private pay.
For more information on the First Choice Healthcare Clinics Women’s Health services call Kewanee 309-852-5272 or Toulon 309-852-3115 or find them on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments announced that their “12 Communities, 12 Months” event for October will be a special outreach display from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Oct. 30, at the Colona Public Library, 911 First St., Colona. Staff will offer free collection and disposal of expired or unused medications and free blood pressure checks. There also will be free giveaways and health information. In addition, a Get Covered Illinois insurance navigator will be available.
For instructions regarding expired/unused medication and sharps disposal for this event click here.
“We believe this is going to be a wonderful event as there will be something for everyone interested in getting some great information, taking advantage of free screenings, giveaways and talking with our staff,” said RaeAnn Tucker, director of health promotion.
The health department and First Choice Healthcare utilize this year-long opportunity to showcase the many programs and services available to area residents and families.
For more information about the “12 Communities, 12 Months” promotions and events call the health department at 309-852-0197 or visit their website at www.henrystarkhealth.com or find them on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments or follow them on Twitter and Instagram.
The Henry and Stark County Health Department reminds area residents of their family planning and reproductive health services available through their First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon.
Through the family planning clinic services, the First Choice Healthcare Clinics hope to give women the information and means they need to protect and improve their health, to plan pregnancies and make responsible decisions. The program also hopes to detect other health problems early in their development so that clients can be referred to other health care providers for treatment.
Many people believe they are without resources to afford reproductive health services. However, they may be eligible for free services based on their income. According to the health department not all adolescents are on birth control to have sex or protect against pregnancy. Some girls who choose not to be sexually active suffer from heavy periods or need to regulate their cycles. Birth control pills can also help with acne.
Clinics are held at their two locations: 110 N. Burr Blvd, Kewanee, call 309-852-5272 and 120 East Court St., Toulon, call 309-852-3115. Appointments, which are necessary, may be made by contacting the clinic nearest you.
The family planning program provides annual physical exams to area women, including a breast exam and pap smear. The clinics offer contraceptive services such as: Depo, Nexplanon, free condoms and more. In addition, they offer pregnancy testing.
The clinic accepts medicaid payments and private pay. A sliding fee scale, based on the client’s income, had been established to assist low-income families to obtain services. In addition, grant funds are available for those who meet certain eligibility requirements.
For more information or to schedule an appointment call the First Choice Healthcare Clinic nearest you or visit their website at www.henrystarkhealth.com
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and the Get Covered Illinois Navigator Program asks, “Do You Need Health Insurance?” Their health insurance navigators will be present at the upcoming local events to assist anyone looking to set up health insurance coverage:
Hillside Florist, 101 N. Main St., Kewanee, Ill.
Friday, Oct. 16
10 a.m.-noon
Army of the Kind, 1000 W. Main St., Geneseo, Ill.
Wednesday, Oct. 21
10 a.m.-noon
