East Central Reporter

U.S. Representative Mike Bost announced his co-sponsorship of a new legislative initiative in an October 8 Facebook post. "I’m proud to be a cosponsor of the SCREENS for Cancer Act, which strengthens the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Detection Program, ensuring more access to life-saving screenings," he said.

"October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month- a time to remember those we've lost, honor survivors, and support their ongoing fight," said Bost, according to Facebook. "I'm proud to be a cosponsor of the SCREENS for Cancer Act, which strengthens the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Detection Program, ensuring more access to life-saving screenings. Early detection saves lives, so make sure you and your loved ones are getting regular screenings. Let's raise awareness and work together toward a future without breast cancer."

According to information from the bill's webpage, House Resolution 3916, known as the SCREENS for Cancer Act of 2024, was introduced on June 7, 2023. Bost signed on as a co-sponsor on July 12, 2023, following Representative Darin LaHood who became a cosponsor on June 23, 2023. In total, there are 56 cosponsors for this legislation.

Screenshot of Congressman Mike Bost's Oct. 8 Facebook post | U.S. Rep. Mike Bost's Facebook page

The Act aims to reauthorize the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program through the fiscal year of 2028. It seeks to expand its scope by addressing disparities and ensuring equitable access to screening and diagnostic services. Additionally, it removes requirements for states to allocate a specific percentage of funds towards screening and referral services.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women in the United States. It accounts for one in three new cancer diagnoses among women annually and is typically diagnosed in women aged 62 or younger. ACS estimates that there will be approximately 310,270 new cases of invasive breast cancer diagnosed in women in 2024, with an estimated death toll of 42,250 women due to breast cancer.

Bost has been serving as the representative for Illinois’ 12th District since January 6, 2015. He brings two decades of experience from his tenure in the Illinois State House of Representatives where he served as House Republican Caucus Chair. A lifelong resident of Murphysboro and former U.S. Marine Corps member from 1979-1982, Bost also worked at Bost Trucking Service before joining the Murphysboro Fire Department after completing his training at the University of Illinois’ Certified Firefighter II Academy in 1993.