National Mammography Day

National Mammography Day is every third Friday in October, bringing attention to the insidious disease of cancer and how to combat it. The most effective way to fight back is to identify and treat cancer in its early stages.

History

In 1950, Robert Egan developed a procedure to identify hardened masses in breast tissue using a machine to compress the breast in order to even out the thickness of the tissue. This procedure revolutionized medicine and saved the lives of millions of women in the US alone.

Interesting Facts

• 98% of women survive when cancer is detected at the first stage.
• Men can also be affected, but at a much lower rate (1%).
• Contraceptives, deodorants, and IVF do not increase the risk of cancer.
• Surgery does not spread cancer.
• Not all women with cancer require a mastectomy.

How to Take Part

The best way to celebrate is to make an appointment with the doctor. Women over 30 with a higher risk of cancer should make an appointment as soon as possible. Self-exams should also be done on a monthly basis. Finally, wearing pink ribbons has become an international symbol of survival.

When is National Mammography Day in 2024?

National Mammography Day is observed on the third Friday of October each year.

Observations