New York, NY - May 5, 2009 - In recognition of Mother's Day, the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC) and the American Cancer Society will promote cancer prevention by educating women about breast cancer and the importance of mammograms for women over 40.

“Mammograms are the most important tool for early detection of breast cancer, and HHC hospitals and health centers remain committed to providing this potentially life-saving screening at little or no cost.” said HHC President Alan D. Aviles.

One in eight women will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime. A mammogram is the best method of detecting breast cancer at an early stage and improving rates of survival; yet 23% of women aged 40 and older have not had a recent mammogram.

“We know that in the fight against breast cancer, early detection saves lives. But not everyone has adequate access to vital cancer screening services, especially in these challenging economic times,” said Mari Carlesimo, American Cancer Society Director of Health Systems Initiatives. “The ability to offer no cost mammograms to uninsured women during the May screening events will directly provide access to quality services that are needed and deserved in the fight against cancer."

Throughout the month of May, HHC will partner with the American Cancer Society to host public education and screening events at several HHC's hospitals and health centers, where women with no health insurance will be able to get mammograms at little or no cost based on family size and income. For more information about May mammogram screening events, call 1-800-277-2345 or visit www.nyc.gov/hhc. Scheduled events at HHC include:

In collaboration with the Staten Island Healthy Living Partnership, HHC will also make breast cancer screenings available at Richmond University Medical Center and Staten Island University Hospital throughout the month of May.

HHC provides mammograms all year round at its 11 hospitals and some of its health centers. New Yorkers can call 311 or visit HHC’s web site at www.nyc.gov/hhc for a complete list of HHC locations providing screenings and other helpful health information.

Last year, HHC provided over 90,000 mammograms to New York women.