Why Women’s Cancer Screenings Matter — And How You Can Receive a $20 Gift Card
Many women put off cancer screenings because life gets busy. Others avoid them because of cost, lack of insurance, fear, or simply not knowing when they are supposed to start.
However, breast and cervical cancer screenings are some of the most important preventive health tools available for women. They help detect cancer early — often before symptoms even appear — when treatment is usually simpler, more effective, and less costly.
That is why the Minnesota Department of Health’s SAGE Program is currently running a special promotion to encourage women to get screened. Women who call SAGE, mention promo code ASN5, and complete an eligible screening at Aslan Health can receive a $20 Walmart or Target gift card.
And here is the important part:
This promotion is available whether you:
- Have no insurance
- Have Medicaid/Medical Assistance
- Have Medicare
- Have commercial insurance
- Make too much money to qualify for SAGE
- Or even “make a billion dollars a year”
If you are due for screening and complete it, you may qualify for the promotion.
Why Cancer Screenings Are So Important
Cancer screenings are designed to catch disease early — sometimes years before a person develops symptoms.
Breast Cancer Screening
Mammograms can detect breast cancer at an early stage, often before a lump can even be felt. Early detection greatly improves treatment options and survival rates.
Many women diagnosed early can avoid:
- More aggressive treatments
- Larger surgeries
- Cancer spread to other parts of the body
Cervical Cancer Screening
Pap tests and HPV testing help identify abnormal cells before they turn into cancer.
In many cases, cervical cancer is actually preventable because providers can detect and treat precancerous changes early.
When Are Women Supposed to Start Screening?
Mammogram Recommendations
Most organizations recommend women begin regular mammograms around age 40.
General recommendations:
- Age 40–44: Women may choose to start annual mammograms
- Age 45–54: Annual mammograms are generally recommended
- Age 55+: Mammograms every 1–2 years depending on personal risk and provider recommendation
Women with a family history of breast cancer or higher risk factors may need earlier screening.
Pap Test & HPV Screening Recommendations
For cervical cancer screening:
- Under 21: Usually no screening needed
- Age 21–29: Pap test every 3 years
- Age 30–65: Options may include:
- Pap test every 3 years
- HPV testing every 5 years
- Pap + HPV co-testing every 5 years
Your provider can help determine what is best for you based on your health history.
New Screening Options Available
Many women avoid cervical screening because they are uncomfortable with pelvic exams.
Newer HPV screening options may allow for self-collection in the clinic setting for eligible patients, making screening easier and more comfortable for some women.
How the $20 Promotion Works
Step 1: Call SAGE
Call:
1-888-643-2584 (1-888-6HEALTH)
Tell them you want to use promo code:
ASN5
A SAGE navigator will:
- Review your eligibility
- Help start the gift card process
- Connect you with scheduling at Aslan Health
Step 2: Complete Your Screening
Once you complete your eligible mammogram or Pap test, you will receive a $20 Walmart or Target gift card.
Women’s Health at Aslan Health
At Aslan Health, we believe preventive care should be accessible, affordable, and personal. We are proud to partner with programs like SAGE to help women remove barriers to important health screenings.
Our women’s health services include:
- Pap tests
- Preventive screenings
- Breast health support
- Menopause care
- STI testing
- Primary care for women
Learn more about our women’s health services here:
Aslan Health Women’s Health Services
Don’t Wait Until There Are Symptoms
One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until something feels wrong.
Cancer screenings are meant for people who feel healthy.
Getting screened now could:
- Catch cancer early
- Prevent cancer from developing
- Give peace of mind
- Protect your future health
If you are due for a mammogram or Pap test, now is a great time to schedule it.
Call 1-888-643-2584 and mention promo code ASN5 to get started.