"Being female and over 40 puts women at higher risk for developing the disease," said Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., MPH, director, DHR, Division of Public Health. "Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Prevention and Awareness Day are important reminders for women, their families and friends about the life saving practice of regular checkups. Everyone has to get involved to make a difference. That's what this day is all about: getting personally involved to save lives."

Women 40 to 64 years of age who cannot afford a mammogram may be eligible to receive the health screenings they need at low or no cost through the BreasTEST & MORE program. This program is offered by DHR and administered through local health departments statewide. About 15,000 Georgia women receive screening services through BreasTEST & MORE each year. Since 1995, BreasTEST & MORE Program has helped more than 600 women to find out that they needed treatment for cancer.

To learn more about screening services and Breast Cancer Prevention and Awareness Day activities in your area call the Fayette County Health Department at 770-461-1178, or call 1-800-4CANCER (1-800-422-6237), or visit www.district4health.org or www.georgiacancer.org.