The third Friday of October is National Mammogram Day as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This day serves as a reminder to all women to get tested for breast cancer. A mammogram can often detect a problem early and before there are any physical signs. Thalia joined many other celebrities and got a mammogram the day before in order to help spread the word.
“Today we commemorate National Mammogram Day and yesterday I had mine. It is extremely important that you do it. Take care of yourself and check yourself, worry about your health,” she said on her Instagram account.
What Is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is a breast exam used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases, including breast cancer in women. This quick medical exam uses a noninvasive X-ray targeted to each breast, producing pictures that your doctor can use to identify and treat any abnormal areas, possibly indicating the presence of cancer.
Mammography Saves Lives is an organization that is dedicated to helping women prevent breast cancer. According to the organization, mammography has helped reduce breast cancer mortality in the U.S. nearly 1/3 since 1990.
For every 1,000 women who have a screening mammogram:
- 100 are recalled to get more mammography or ultrasound images
- 20 are recommended for a needle biopsy
- 5 are diagnosed with breast cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, Latinas are diagnosed with late-stage cancer at higher rates than non-Latinas. This means that one Latina dies of breast cancer every 90 minutes in the U.S. It is advised to begin getting mammograms at the age of 40, especially since 1 in 6 breast cancers occur in women aged 40-49. Those that have a family history of breast cancer are encouraged to test earlier.
If you haven’t done so already, get tested. Call your doctor and set up an appointment or visit Mammography Saves Lives.