This October, Atrium Health Navicent is organizing several events across central Georgia to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection. The initiative coincides with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which features the return of pink and green Paper Doll silhouettes as symbols of breast health education.
According to a 2024 report from the American Cancer Society, breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer among women in the United States. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime, and one in 43 will die from the disease. While survival rates have improved and death rates have decreased by 44 percent since 1989, there has been an increase in diagnoses among women under age 50.
Atrium Health Navicent Peyton Anderson Cancer Center advises community members to consider key risk factors summarized by the C.H.E.C.K. list: lifestyle choices such as physical activity and diet; family history; estrogen exposure; alcohol consumption; and genetic factors like BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. The center emphasizes that regular mammograms are essential for early detection, recommending baseline screenings at age 40 or earlier for some individuals.
Dr. Paul Dale, a surgical oncologist at Atrium Health Navicent, stated: “Let’s use this month to help all women to be more aware of how prevalent breast cancer is and the tools that we have to diagnose and treat this deadly disease. Early detection saves lives, so if you’ve been putting off getting a mammogram, this month is a great time to talk with your doctor and get one scheduled, or schedule an appointment on the new Atrium Health Navicent mobile mammography coach.”
Events planned for October include:
– Pink Ribbon Car Painting on October 3 at Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center.
– Mammogram Marathon on October 9 at all Atrium Health Navicent mammography locations offering walk-in appointments.
– Glow and Grace Survivor Event on October 12 at South Bibb Recreation Complex.
– Lunch & Learn for survivors on October 15 at Peyton Anderson Cancer Center.
– Pink Alliance Monthly Support Group Meeting with health fair on October 24 at South Bibb Recreation Center.
Mobile mammography services will also be available throughout central Georgia during various dates in October at locations including Macon, Montezuma, Byron, Forsyth, Fort Valley, Cochran, Milledgeville, Tennille, Warner Robins, McRae and others.
The Peyton Anderson Cancer Center offers advanced diagnostic technology such as state-of-the-art 3D mammography and wireless localization procedures. High-risk hereditary screenings are also provided.
The Atrium Health Navicent Breast Care Center has received recognition as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by national accrediting bodies including the American College of Radiology’s Commission on Quality and Safety. It is also accredited by The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) through the American College of Surgeons.
For more information about cancer services or finding a doctor through Atrium Health Navicent visit www.NavicentHealth.org or call 478-633-3000.
