Everybody Walk Across Pennsylvania, Fall 2026 Week 4 - October 5th

This week's tip is from Donna Greco, MSW, Government Relations Director, Pennsylvania, for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network 

Act 52 of 2025: Understanding new breast cancer imaging coverage in Pennsylvania 

Starting in 2027, Act 52 of 2025 requires no-cost coverage of certain breast cancer imaging for women who need additional tests after an abnormal finding and for women who need supplemental screening because of certain risk factors (Pennsylvania General Assembly, n.d.).  

In Pennsylvania, breast cancer remains the most common cancer diagnosis, with 13,720 new cases and 1,770 deaths expected in 2026 (American Cancer Society, 2026). It is important that individuals receive recommended breast cancer screening and any necessary follow-up imaging to rule out or diagnose cancer early, when it is most treatable.  

Early detection can result in more effective treatment and higher survival rates. Yet, many Pennsylvanians delay or forego imaging altogether due to cost barriers. Women of color and economically disadvantaged Pennsylvanians are disproportionately impacted by these barriers (Messerman, Nickels, and James, 2026).

Act 52 eliminates out-of-pocket costs (i.e., copayments and deductibles) for the following imaging:  

• Diagnostic imaging, including a diagnostic mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI when an abnormality is seen or suspected; and
• Supplemental imaging, including MRI or ultrasound, for individuals with above-average risk factors such as dense breast tissue or personal or family history of breast cancer. 

Unfortunately, because health insurance plans are regulated by both state and federal laws, not everyone in Pennsylvania will benefit from Act 52. We recommend that patients contact their health insurance company or their doctors’ financial navigators to understand what their plan covers and what costs may apply to any recommended breast imaging tests they may receive. 

Lack of affordability should never dictate whether a person can prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Act 52 of 2025 will help make that a reality for more Pennsylvanians by removing cost-sharing for certain breast cancer imaging.  

References 

The Official Website of the Pennsylvania General Assembly (n.d.) Act No. 52 of 2025 

American Cancer Society (2026) Explore Cancer Statistics

Messerman J, Nickels C, James N. Barriers to Mammography Screening Access Among Low-income Women in the United States: A Scoping Review.  J Cancer Prev 2026;31:107-115. doi.org/10.15430/JCP.26.013

Photo Scavenger Hunt

America's 250^th: Washington's Crossing  

Our next stop in celebrating America's 250^th is Washington's Crossing Historic Park. This park, located in Bucks County, preserves the site where General George Washington and his army crossed the icy Delaware River through sleet and snow on the night of December 25, 1776, during the American Revolution.

This daring military operation allowed Washington's troops to surprise Hessian forces at the Battle of Trenton the following morning. The Hessians were professional German soldiers who fought during the American Revolution on the side of the British. The much-needed victory at the Battle of Trenton boosted American morale, encouraged soldiers to keep fighting, and helped change the course of the war. The victories at Trenton and Princeton that followed helped keep the Revolutionary cause alive and demonstrated that the American army could defeat professional enemy forces. 

Today, visitors can explore more than 500 acres of historic and natural landscapes, including preserved colonial-era buildings, walking trails, and the Visitor Center. The park's gallery exhibits feature artifacts from the Revolutionary War, displays about the Delaware River crossing, and a large reproduction of Emanuel Leutze's famous painting, Washington Crossing the Delaware. December 25, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary of George Washington's crossing of the Delaware River.

To celebrate this milestone, two enhanced Crossing Reenactments are scheduled for Sunday, December 13, and Friday, December 25, 2026. The park also has enhanced exhibits and new interpretive experiences, including a new historical trail with artwork and stories connected to the crossing, to celebrate America’s 250^th. 

Reference:   

Washington Crossing Historic Park. Washington Crossing Historic Park. (2026, May 19).

Recipe of the Week

Baked Breakfast Apple Crumble Recipe. This is an easy and delicious, sweet breakfast and a good source of fiber with limited added sugars.

Resource Highlights

Walk by Faith This program is designed for people interested in implementing and/or leading a healthy eating and physical activity program within their organization. Once trained, Walk by Faith leaders will be better prepared to help participants maintain a healthy weight and reduce their risk of cancer.

Journey to a Healthier Heart Introducing major changes into our daily lives can be challenging. Choosing a heart-healthy lifestyle is like setting off on a journey: It requires a step-by-step approach.

Upcoming Events

Let's Cook at Home: Charcuterie Boards Learn how to make a charcuterie board for a fun meal or appetizer with friends and family.

Let's Cook at Home: Mediterranean Take a tasty trip to the Mediterranean in this virtual cooking class. Watch and learn as we prepare an authentic Mediterranean meal. 

Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia Learn during this webinar the basics of Alzheimer's and dementia. 

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's Learn during this informative event to recognize the common signs of Alzheimer's Disease.