The National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) program is dedicated to increasing awareness of the importance of the early detection of breast cancer through a nationwide educational campaign directed at the general public, state and federal governments, health care professionals, employers, and women of all ages and ethnic groups.

The sponsors of the NBCAM campaign include 19 national public service organizations, professional medical associations, and government agencies working in partnership to raise awareness and provide access to screening services.

The first week-long NBCAM program took place in October 1985 with a goal to fill the information void in public communication about breast cancer. The third Friday in October each year is National Mammography Day, first proclaimed by President Clinton in 1993. On this day, or throughout the month, radiologists provide discounted or free screening mammograms.

For more information about the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month program visit: www.nbcam.org

For more information about breast cancer, please visit:  http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/breast