National Mammography Day 2023: National Search Mammography Day occurs on October 20 this year. National Search Mammography Day is observed on the third Friday of October and is related to Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While both entities share a dedication to the well-being of women, the purpose of designating this day is to specifically motivate women to schedule an appointment. Early treatment is contingent upon early detection; it is a matter of life and death.
National Mammography Day History
Mammography is an imaging modality that employs low-energy X-rays to identify calcification, an early indicator of breast cancer. Robert Egan introduced a groundbreaking technique for screening mammography in the late 1950s. He published his findings in 1959 and a book titled “Mammography” in the early 1960s. His development, which became referred to as “The Egan Technique,” enabled physicians to identify solidifying masses in the tissue of the breast.
The breast is compressed during a mammogram using a mammography unit. By increasing the density of the breast tissue, this compression reduces the quantity of scattered radiation and prevents motion-induced blurring. It is not advisable for women to apply deodorant, lotion, or talcum powder while undergoing these examinations, as these substances may appear as calcium spots on the x-ray. The procedure is purportedly excruciatingly painful or extremely unsettling, which may deter many women from returning or scheduling follow-up examinations.
Presently, more than 3.1 million individuals are alive in the United States alone as a result of early detection technologies such as mammography. Mammography consultations for women aged 40 and older are advised to be scheduled biennially. Nevertheless, women who are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer are advised to plan their appointments on an annual basis. Certain risk factors for developing breast cancer encompass extensive smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a familial predisposition to the disease. Additionally, there are measures that women can adopt to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer. These include maintaining a healthy diet, exercising routinely, and limiting their alcohol consumption.
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National Mammography Day FAQs
When is Awareness Month for Breast Cancer?
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed on an annual basis in October. Invest the time necessary to educate yourself on breast cancer and discover ways to reduce your risk of being diagnosed.
Mammograms at no cost?
A mammogram may not incur a deductible requirement, contingent upon the specifics of your health care plan. Additionally, some Planned Parenthood affiliates provide uninsured and low-income women with complimentary mammography vehicles.
Do mammograms cause discomfort?
While some women experience discomfort throughout the procedure, others do not feel anything. The discomfort experienced during the procedure is a result of the mammography unit compressing the breast to disseminate the tissue more evenly.
Observing National Mammography Day | Guidelines
Schedule a mammogram consultation.
Set aside time on October 18 to schedule that appointment if you have been putting it off out of fear (or simply denial that you are 40 years old). Consider that approximately 100 out of every 1,000 women who undergo screening are requested to undergo additional mammography or permit ultrasonic imagery. Out of the total of twenty women who are referred for a biopsy, breast cancer is diagnosed in only five. Despite an anomalous mammogram, the probability remains significant that cancer has evaded detection.
Perform a breast self-examination
Presently is the moment to recommit to conducting monthly self-examinations. Consult your physician or nurse practitioner to schedule an appointment so they can demonstrate the proper technique. Additionally, you can search online for images or infographics that illustrate the procedure. Ultimately, it is your body; therefore, be kind to it.
Put on some fuchsia
The color pink is designated as the official hue for breast cancer awareness, including National Search Mammography Day. Don a pink ribbon with pride to pay tribute to a cherished friend or family member, or to raise general awareness for breast cancer. Although seemingly inconsequential, it signifies to survivors of breast cancer that they are not solitary in their ordeal.
NATIONAL MAMMOGRAPHY DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | October 20 | Friday |
| 2024 | October 18 | Friday |
| 2025 | October 17 | Friday |
