Both women and men can get breast cancer, though it is much more common in women. Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States. Some women are at higher risk than others because of their personal or family medical history or because of certain changes in their genes.
Getting mammograms regularly can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends that average-risk women who are 50 to 74 years old should have a screening mammogram every two years. Average-risk women who are 40 to 49 years old should talk to their doctor about when to start and how often to get a screening mammogram.
Mammograms are covered by most health insurance programs. Individuals can get a screening mammogram without any out-of-pocket costs. If individuals are worried about the cost or don’t have health insurance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers free or low-cost mammograms and education about breast cancer. Find out more.
The third Friday of October (October 21) is National Mammography Day, this day encourages millions – especially older women and those in underserved communities – to receive a preventative mammogram and become empowered in the fight against breast cancer. The National Breast Cancer Foundation has partnered with medical facilities across the country to provide free or low-cost mammograms and diagnostic breast care services to underserved women throughout October.
Check out these printable educational materials and share with family, friends, patients, etc:
General Education and Background Resources
- National Breast Cancer Foundation
- National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM):
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – general breast cancer awareness information