Make The Pink Promise for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

"1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop breast cancer in their lifetime."

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer worldwide, and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in American women. In fact, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.

Sentara Healthcare is asking women to make The Pink Promise, a commitment to get your breast cancer screening by scheduling a mammogram during the month of October - or if they are not yet eligible, to remind a woman they care about to schedule their mammogram.

"We created The Pink Promise because the number of women who had screenings was down over the pandemic year," said Jennifer Reed, Breast Surgeon with Sentara Surgery Specialists. "We want to see women returning to regular screening as a promise to themselves and the people they love. And, we want to remind women that at age 40, it's time to make your appointment for your first mammogram."

Why Screening Matters and Who Is Eligible

Mammograms are the gold standard for screening for breast cancer - and finding cancer early is the best chance for a cure for a patient. Screening mammograms begin at age 40 for all women, but for those with family history or other risk factors, screening may begin earlier.

The Pink Promise is a commitment to breast cancer screening - and scheduling a mammogram appointment as soon as you are eligible.

How can you learn more and make The Pink Promise?

The Pink Promise can be completed here. Make your Pink Promise with a friend and show us your promise to one another on #ThePinkPromise on Instagram.

Listen to Dr. Mary Guye, Surgical Oncologist with Sentara Surgery Specialists, speak on the importance of screening. The pandemic has resulted in women delaying regular screenings, and now is the time to schedule your next appointment.