The Sampson County Breast & Cervical Cancer Program, also known as BCCCP, is a program that provides free physical exams, pap smears and mammograms to older women that have little or no insurance. Physical exams and Pap Smears are provided to women ages 40 – 64 and free mammograms are available to women ages 50 – 64 that meet certain eligibility requirements. This group of women often falls through the cracks of health care because they have been stay-at-home moms or work minimum wage jobs and can’t afford health insurance. With the assistance of United Way of Sampson County and South River Electric Membership Corporation, the BCCCP Program will assist over 100 women this year receive these services at no cost. If you or someone you know is age 40-64 and has little or no insurance, call the Sampson County Health Department for more information.

The Sampson County BCCCP Advisory Board, in conjunction with United Way of Sampson County, works with local groups to provide outreach and awareness of breast and cervical cancer. Group members are invited to local churches and civic groups to inform people about breast and cervical cancer awareness and prevention, stressing the importance of early detection of breast and cervical cancer by having mammograms and Pap Smears done on a regular basis. The Board is always looking for new members to help with this very important mission. If you are interested in joining or want more information, please call the Sampson County Health Department or talk to one of our members.

The BCCCP Advisory Board, in conjunction with United Way of Sampson County, will sponsor the 14th Annual Sampson County Breast Cancer Awareness Rally, which will be held this year on Saturday, Oct. 13. The rally will begin at the Sampson County Courthouse at 9:30am, followed by a march to the First Baptist Church at 900 College Street. The rally will include speakers, entertainment, booths, free food and door prizes. Please come and help us support this important cause.

The Sampson County Health Department also sponsors the North Carolina Blue Cross Blue Shield Breast Cancer Button Chair Display each year. The chair will be on display at Oct. 8-12 at the Sampson County Health Department at 360 County Complex Road. The chair is covered in buttons from North Carolina residents that have been diagnosed with breast cancer, including a button from NC State’s Coach Kay Yow. The display also has inspiring stories from breast cancer survivors.

For more information on the BCCCP Program, the 14th Annual Sampson County Breast Cancer Awareness Rally, the Breast Cancer Button Chair or how to become a BCCCP Advisory Board member, call 592-1131, ext. 4239, 4969, 4973 or 4968.