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National Mammography Day

Show your support for National Mammography Day and join the fight against breast cancer - schedule your appointment today!

Friday

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEThird Friday in October

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYCancer

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars for National Mammography Day on the third Friday of October! This day was created to promote awareness about the importance of early detection and screening for breast cancer. The U.S. Congress designated this day in 1993 and since then it has become an annual event to remind women (and men) to take charge of their health and get regular mammograms. Early detection is key in helping prevent serious complications, so make sure you schedule your appointment today!

TIMELINE

National Mammography Day Timeline

Discovery of X-Rays

Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered the X-rays, a significant breakthrough that would later pave the way for mammography.

Albert Salomon's Study on Breast Cancer

Surgeon Albert Salomon conducted the first comprehensive study of breast cancer using X-rays, helping develop the technique of mammography.

Perfecting Mammography

Radiologist Robert Egan published "A New Radiographic Technique for Breast Diagnosis", improving the quality and diagnostic use of mammograms.

Mammography Quality Standards Act

The Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) was passed by Congress to ensure the safety and accuracy of mammograms across the United States.

Establishment of National Mammography Day

The U.S. Congress designated the third Friday in October as National Mammography Day, dedicating it to promoting awareness about early detection of breast cancer through mammograms.

Introduction of Digital Mammography

The FDA approved the first full-field digital mammography system, making mammograms more detailed and easier to interpret.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Mammography Day

Schedule a mammogram

It is recommended that women ages 40 and over should get a yearly mammogram. Make sure you schedule yours and don't forget to mark it on your calendar.

SPREAD

Spread the word

Share mammography facts, stories, and resources with your friends and family. The more people know, the better.

DONATE

Donate to a breast cancer charity

Consider donating to a breast cancer charity or organization in honor of National Mammography Day. Your donation could help fund research or provide care for those in need.

ATTEND

Attend an event

Check with local hospitals, medical centers, and other health organizations to see if they are hosting events in honor of National Mammography Day. You could attend a free screening, health talk, or other educational event.

WEAR

Wear pink

Show your support for National Mammography Day by wearing something pink on October 18th. Put on your favorite pink shirt or dress up in pink from head to toe!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Mammography Day is Important

Mammograms are easy and convenient

Most healthcare providers have onsite mammography facilities or can easily refer you to one nearby. And if you don't have access to transportation or live far away from a facility, there are even mobile mammogram clinics available in some areas which make it easier than ever to get regular screening done from the comfort and convenience of home.

Mammography helps detect cancer early

By getting a mammogram, you can catch any potential signs of breast cancer before it spreads and spreads. Early detection is key when it comes to taking action against this potentially life-threatening disease. The earlier you are able to intervene, the better your chances are of successfully treating it.

Mammography saves lives

The goal of mammograms is to find breast cancer in its earliest stages so that successful treatment can be administered and lives can be saved. Regularly scheduled screenings help increase the rate of diagnosis as well as improve effectiveness of treatments, making them more successful overall.

Related holidays

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Month-long awareness observance in October dedicated to breast cancer education and promoting early detection through mammography.

World Breast Cancer Research Day

Help us spread awareness for World Breast Cancer Research Day - donate, volunteer and show your support for those affected by this disease.

World Radiography Day

Celebrate World Radiography Day and recognize the invaluable contributions of radiographers to healthcare! Show your support for this important field.

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TUE

Oct 2026