SIOUX FALLS, S.D.(KELO)- Health-related social needs are causing some women to skip mammograms…potentially a life-threatening decision.

More than 40-thousand women die from breast cancer in the U-S every year.

Dr. Debra Houry, (HOW-ree) the CDC’s Chief Medical Officer says timely mammograms could cut that number.

Rural states like South Dakota have a higher percentage of women who have fallen behind on getting mammograms.

Officials say that’s largely due to financial reasons and little access to reliable transportation.

Dr. Debra Houry (HOW-ree) says the decision is usually related to social needs.

Free and low-cost breast and cervical cancer screenings are available through the CDC.