Overview of Program
The process to create the Breast Cancer License Tag begun in 2001 after Kaiser Permanente hosted an event for Dr. Ernie Bodai, the Permanente physician who successfully advocated for the US Postal Service breast cancer research stamp. Kaiser Permanente obtained the support from the Atlanta Postmaster to use the image of the breast cancer research stamp. Kaiser Permanente then approached the Governor's office and House of Representatives to request permission to obtain a special license plate for breast cancer. Kaiser Permanente and the Georgia Cancer Coalition worked collaboratively to get the legislation passed in the 2002 Georgia General Assembly.
The purpose of the Breast Cancer License Tag Fund is to expand breast cancer screening, including education, outreach and access, for the medically indigent consistent with clinical standards-of-care. While Georgia has been successful at increasing breast cancer screening rates, not all women – particularly the medically indigent – receive appropriate screening. When identified at an early stage, through mammography and clinical breast exams, breast cancer treatment is more effective and mortality rates improve. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death for women in Georgia. This year alone it is estimated that 6,057 will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 1,014 women will die from it.
Since 2003, more than $2 million has been contributed to the Fund by Georgians through the purchase of vehicle license plates, statewide promotion and partnerships with Georgia automobile dealers. Grants have been awarded to 35 organizations. The grantees' proposals aligned with the intended purpose of the Breast Cancer License Tag Fund which included education, breast cancer screening, outreach and access.
Click here to find out how you can join the fight against Breast Cancer through purchase of the Georgia Breast Cancer License Tag.
Click here to renew your Breast Cancer License Tag online.
For information on Breast Cancer License Tag grants, contact Paulette Poole, Office of Women's Health, Georgia Department of Community Health, at 404-463-5040 or email: PPoole@dch.ga.gov