Dane County Board of Supervisors Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October 23, 2025
Dylan Moffitt, Policy, Outreach, and Communications Coordinator, (608) 228-9053
County Board

Recognition has raised awareness and inspired action for 40 Years

DANE COUNTY, Wis. — On Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, the Dane County Board of Supervisors officially recognized the month of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month throughout Dane County, underscoring the importance of early detection and increased public awareness about breast cancer prevention and treatment. The board passed 2025 RES-181 to mark this observance.

First established in 1985, Breast Cancer Awareness Month has encouraged action nationwide, contributing to increased early detection and advancements in life-saving treatments. In Dane County, the breast cancer incidence rate is approximately 139 cases per 100,000 residents, with only 74% of county residents being up to date on routine mammogram screenings.

“The Dane County Board of Supervisors is proud to stand with residents and partners working to raise awareness and expand access to early detection and treatment,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles. “Public health is a shared responsibility, and recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month reflects our ongoing commitment to improving health outcomes for every community in Dane County.”

“Breast cancer has affected families and communities across Dane County,” said Supervisor Heidi Wegleitner (Dist. 2), who introduced the resolution. “Recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month affirms our shared responsibility to promote prevention, increase access to care, and support evidence-based initiatives that save lives. It is also a reminder of the work that remains to ensure every resident can access timely, affordable, and equitable care.”

The board also welcomed Dawn Henslee, program coordinator for the Wisconsin Well Woman Program in Dane County, to speak in support of the resolution. “The Well Woman Program helps bridge the gap for women who might otherwise choose to skip their annual breast cancer screening or who will go without the care and support they deserve. Our clients are mothers, daughters, friends, sisters, and they all deserve to access these life-saving services” said Henslee.

The Wisconsin Well Woman Program helps women who have little or no health insurance get screenings for breast and cervical cancers. In Dane County, the program is coordinated by Public Health Madison & Dane County. For more information, including program eligibility details, visit: https://bit.ly/PHMDCWWP or call (608) 424-6385.

The Dane County Board of Supervisors reaffirms its commitment to raising awareness about the importance of mammograms and other preventive screenings, and to advocating for policies that ensure all residents have access to the care and resources they need.

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About the Dane County Board of Supervisors: The Dane County Board of Supervisors is the legislative and policymaking body of Dane County government. Composed of 37 supervisors elected to represent each county district, the county board’s mission is to effectively represent the people of Dane County, providing services that secure the blessings of freedom, ensure domestic tranquility, promote the general welfare, and perfect the forms of government. Learn more about the county board at https://board.danecounty.gov/.