It is estimated that one in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime, making it one of our most serious threats to public health. In New York City alone, each year approximately 5,000 women will learn they have breast cancer, the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer among women in the city. Moreover, approximately 1,200 women in New York City will succumb to the disease every year.
A report by the Departments of Health and Mental Hygiene and Homeless Services to give information about the health of the homeless of New York City and to offer recommendations on how to improve their health.
Regular Pap tests can prevent cervical cancer by identifying abnormalties before it becomes cancerous. Since its curable stages show no symptoms, women are recommended to get a screening every 1 to 3 years. However, despite the recommendation, 20% of women say they do not get Pap tests regularly. This report focuses on the characteristics of women who are not regularly getting tested and explores why they do not get tested regularly.