Delaware Expands Breast Cancer Screening Access

State efforts aim to improve early detection for Delaware women as incidence rates remain among the highest in the nation.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Cancer

Delaware Expands Breast Cancer Screening Access

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Is access to preventative health screenings getting better or worse in your local area?

Governor Matt Meyer has officially proclaimed October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting state efforts to improve screening access. Delaware currently ranks second in the nation for breast cancer incidence, making early detection a critical focus for state health initiatives.

Why it matters

Early detection is vital for long-term health outcomes, as survival rates drop significantly if cancer spreads to distant parts of the body. Officials are targeting these rates by expanding access to care and reducing diagnostic barriers for Delaware residents.

Data from 2018-2022 shows that nearly 5,000 Delaware women received a breast cancer diagnosis. While the five-year survival rate exceeds 99% for early detection, it falls to 32% for cases that have spread to distant body parts.

The players

Matt Meyer

The Governor of Delaware who signed a proclamation for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and enacted legislation to expand access to genetic testing.

The details

To improve early detection, Delaware recently enacted Senate Bill 70, which allows licensed genetic counselors to order genetic tests without a preliminary physician referral. This policy change aims to reduce administrative hurdles and expedite the identification of high-risk individuals. Additionally, the state utilizes initiatives like the Screening for Life program to increase access to preventive services for local populations.

Nearly 5,000 Delaware women were diagnosed with breast cancer between 2018 and 2022.
Governor Meyer signed Senate Bill 70 into law in August 2025.
October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month as of October 2026.

Health Landscape

Delaware continues to grapple with one of the highest breast cancer incidence rates in the nation, necessitating targeted policy interventions. Senate Bill 70 represents a shift toward empowering specialized clinicians to expedite the screening pathway for at-risk populations.

If you have a family history of breast cancer, talk to your primary care physician about whether direct access to genetic counseling through the new state law could benefit your screening plan. Prioritizing routine screenings remains your most effective tool for early detection.

The takeaway

Early detection is the single most important factor in breast cancer survival, with rates over 99% before the cancer spreads. Discuss your screening schedule and risk factors with your doctor to ensure you are up to date on recommended preventive care.