HARRISBURG, Pa. — Oct. 1 is the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to celebrate survivors, remember those lost to the disease and remind women to schedule their annual mammograms.
For more than a decade, state leaders and survivors have gathered at the Pennsylvania State Capitol fountain as it goes pink, and that practice is expected to continue at 11 a.m. this morning.
The purpose of the fountain is to remind women to schedule their mammograms, because the earlier a problem is detected, the better the chance of survival.
When detected at its earliest stages, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer is over 90%.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four women ages 50-74 missed their mammograms last year.
A spokesperson with the Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Coalition not only wants to remind women that early detection saves lives, but to also know their risk by utilizing a new law.
“We also want individuals in Pennsylvania to know about a new law that has taken effect now, Act 1 of 2023, for no cost MRI, ultrasound, and BRCA-related genetic testing and counseling, and that is no cost, no copay, no deductible, no insurance for those screenings and testing,” said Natalie Kopp, communications director.
The Pennsylvania Dairymen's Association is also expected to attend Tuesday’s event and provide pink milkshakes, so people can enjoy a beautiful sight and a sweet treat.
The event is free and open to the public.
The fountain will remain pink through the rest of the month.