In 1991, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) began developing a national strategic plan for early detection and control of breast and cervical cancers.

The Breast and Cervical Cancer Mortality Prevention Act of 1990 authorized grants to state health agencies to make screening tests for breast and cervical cancer available to low-income women. From July 16, 1991, through July 31, 1992, $64 million was awarded to state health agencies in 12 states through the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.