CHRISTUS Health celebrated World Cancer Day, Feb. 4, recognizing the vital role regular screenings play in detecting breast cancer early.
Early detection through advanced mammogram technology is crucial for better outcomes, which is why CHRISTUS Hospital - Orange provides services like 3D mammography, bone density tests, and breast ultrasounds.
Program Manager of Breast Health Services Billie Loncon encourages women to begin annual mammograms at age 40, with earlier screening recommended for those at higher risk due to factors such as family history, increased breast density, or certain genetic conditions.
Established in 2000 by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), the day serves as a collaborative effort from everyone.
"By catalyzing personal, collective and government action, we are all working together to reimagine a world where millions of cancer deaths are prevented and access to life-saving cancer treatment and care is equitable for all no matter who you are and where you live," the website reads.
Each year, hundreds of activities and events take place around the world, gathering communities, organizations and individuals in schools, businesses, hospitals, marketplaces, parks, community halls, places of worship — in the streets and online — acting as a powerful reminder that everyone has a role to play in reducing the global impact of cancer.
UICC runs World Cancer Day campaigns in three-year cycles to allow for a deeper exploration of a particular theme and achieve greater impact. For more information, visit https://www.worldcancerday.org/.