It was a vision of pink at both campuses of SkyRidge Medical Center this Friday, when staff wore pink shirts to help celebrate the 25th anniversary of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“Staff really like the idea of raising awareness and raising money for a good cause,” said Chief Executive Officer Coleman Foss.

“By making a donation to the cancer cause Relay for Life, employees were able to wear jeans, which adds some fun.”

The pink focus is intended to raise awareness for the benefits of early detection of breast cancer.

“We support breast cancer awareness every day, but we wanted to take a day in October, which is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, to be even more obvious about it,” said Sonya Mitchell, R.T., mammography team leader at SkyRidge Breast Imaging Center.

“It is important for every woman to take time for breast self-exams, annual mammograms and communication with her doctor if she is experiencing any changes in her breasts. Mammograms are the most effective screening tool for protecting a woman against breast cancer – helping to promote early detection and diagnosis, which in turn contribute to better outcomes for women who require treatment.”

It is most widely suggested that beginning at age 40, a woman should have a mammogram once a year, unless her physician has recommended that screenings begin earlier or be conducted more frequently based on her personal health history.

SkyRidge Breast Imaging Center is accredited by the American College of Radiology and FDA, providing a full array of services including digital mammography with computer-aided detection, ultrasound and stereotactic breast biopsy.

The center is conveniently located at the Westside campus with flexible appointments and an updated private dressing area.

Visit www.SkyRidgeMedical Center.com , click on “Health Resources” and type “mammogram” in the search box.

Also, click on “Interactive Tools” to take the Cancer Quiz or a Breast Cancer Risk Assessment.

For more information, call 423-559-TEST (8378).