Dupage Policy Journal

Rep. Nicole La Ha emphasized the significance of breast cancer screening in a Facebook post dated October 8, stating, "I was proud to vote for HB 4180, which will ensure that women across Illinois have access to life-saving screenings without having to worry about financial hurdles."

"In Illinois alone, approximately 12,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health," said La Ha, State Representative, according to Facebook. "This statistic shows the urgent need for education, early detection, and support for those affected. I was proud to vote for HB 4180, which will ensure that women across Illinois have access to life-saving screenings without having to worry about financial hurdles. The bill addresses a significant gap in coverage by requiring insurance companies to cover both Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)."

House Bill 4180 was introduced in the Illinois House on October 18, 2023, by Rep. Nabeela Syed. It underwent its second reading on April 17, 2024, and subsequently passed the House on April 18. The bill then moved to the Senate, where it was approved on May 15, 2024. Governor's approval came on August 9, and the law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026. The legislation mandates insurance coverage for specific types of mammography for patients of a certain age and also requires coverage for molecular breast imaging and magnetic resonance imaging of breast tissue. Additionally, it instructs the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to establish an expert panel to develop quality standards for breast cancer treatment.

Screenshot of State Rep. Nicole La Ha's Oct. 8 Facebook post | State Representative Nicole La Ha Zwiercan's Facebook page.

According to medical classifications, various types of breast cancer exist. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) involves cancer cells within the lining of the breast milk duct; invasive ductal carcinoma extends beyond milk ducts into other breast tissues. Lobular carcinoma in situ features abnormal cells in breast lobules without spreading. Invasive lobular breast cancer begins in milk glands and invades surrounding tissue. Triple negative breast cancer lacks three common hormone receptors found in tumors. Inflammatory breast cancer affects skin and lymph vessels of the breast, while metastatic breast cancer spreads from the breast to other body areas.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women in the United States, accounting for one-third of new female cancer diagnoses annually. Typically diagnosed in women aged 62 or younger, a woman's lifetime risk of developing breast cancer stands at approximately 13%, with a mortality risk around 2.5%. ACS projects that there will be about 310,270 new cases of invasive breast cancer diagnosed among women in 2024 and estimates that approximately 42,250 women will succumb to the disease.

La Ha assumed her role representing Illinois' 82nd State House District following John Egofske's resignation. Formerly Mrs. America and press secretary for Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods), she has a robust background in public advocacy and charitable work. La Ha received recognition with the International Humanitarian Award in 2018 for her community service contributions. Her campaign website underscores her dedication to community service and highlights her election to Homer Glen's Board of Trustees in 2021. During her tenure, she opposed tax increases and contributed significantly to improving life quality for residents with disabilities.