Breast Cancer Awareness Month: From Awareness to Action

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about breast cancer, encourage individuals to prioritize their health and highlight the importance of early detection.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, there are currently over 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. Taking action can be as simple as knowing your personal risk factors, scheduling a mammogram, or speaking with a healthcare provider about changes you may have noticed.

Get Your Breast Cancer Screening

One of the most important steps you can take for your breast cancer health is to stay up to date with recommended screenings. The American Cancer Society recommends:

• Ages 40-44: Have the option to begin annual mammograms
• Ages 45- 54: Have a mammogram annually. 
• Ages 55 and older: Continue with annual mammograms, or transition to screening every other year. 

Screening recommendations may vary due to your age, family history, genetics, breast density, personal medical history, reproductive history, and other risk factors. Speak with your healthcare provider to determine if you may benefit from earlier or additional screening. It is also important to speak with your healthcare provider if you notice a new or unusual change, including a lump, swelling, skin changes, or persistent breast pain.

Free and Low-Cost Mammography Resources

The cost of screening can be a barrier to getting screened. Fortunately, several programs in New York offer free or low-cost mammography services to eligible individuals.

Free Mammography Screening in Nassau County, NY

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Nassau County Legislature Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton is partnering with NuHealth to bring a breast cancer screening van to the Charles Evans Center in Glen Cove.

Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Charles Evans Center, 113 Glen Cove Avenue, Glen Cove, NY 11542

This event is for eligible uninsured women age 40 and older. Appointments are required. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact the Nassau County Legislative District 11 office at (516) 571-6211.

Free Breast Cancer Screening in New York State

The New York State Cancer Services Program provides free breast cancer screening and diagnostic services to eligible uninsured and underinsured New Yorkers. Services may include mammograms, clinical breast exams, and follow-up diagnostic services when needed.
To find a participating provider near you, call 1-866-442-CANCER (2262).

Mobile Mammography Screening on Long Island

For women on Long Island, Stony Brook Medicine offers mobile mammography services that bring breast cancer screening to communities throughout Suffolk and Nassau Counties. Mobile mammography can provide a convenient option for women who may have difficulty accessing a traditional imaging center.

Upcoming Screening:
Date: Friday, October 2, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Wyandanch

Visit Stony Brook Medicine’s Mobile Mammography program to schedule your appointment or to learn more about locations and eligibility.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also an opportunity to come together as a community to support individuals and families affected by breast cancer. For our team, participating in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk is one small way to turn awareness into action.

Join Us at the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Jones Beach State Park – Field 5
Walk Times: 7:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (Rolling Start)
Participate or donate: https://secure.acsevents.org/goto/makofskyvalentelawgroup
 
EVERY DONATION, BIG OR SMALL, WILL MAKE AN IMPACT!
 
Whether it is scheduling your mammogram, encouraging a loved one to get screened, supporting someone going through treatment, donating, or participating in a community event, every action counts. This October, take a moment to prioritize your health and encourage loved ones in your life to do the same! Together, we can make a difference!