We know getting a mammogram is NOT the most fun thing on earth. Our horse trainer/friend Gail, who is afraid of NOTHING, (and who makes most of us look like Chicken Little as she calmly assures us that that sky is not falling), has passed out during her mammograms.  (Why do we feel such gratification in that?)  But if you gotta do it, you might as well do it in style! 

We read about “mammogram parties” a couple of years ago in a great book, Prime Time Women:  How to Win the Hearts, Minds, and Business of Boomer Big Spenders,by marketing-to-women thought leader, Marti Barletta.  Several women in Dallas decided to have a “Girls’ Day Out” at the doctor’s office and went together as a group to get their mammograms.  Now their annual appointments are turned into parties, and the typical dread that goes along with this medical procedure is turned into relief and joy because the women take their support system – their best friends – with them. 

Centra Care and Florida Radiology Imaging, Inc. have taken the concept one festive step further by offering “Mammogram and Manicure” parties.  You can book a party for you and your friends, and when you show up, not only do you get a mammogram, but you also get fabulous food, delightful (and hopefully pain-dulling) drinks, marvelous music, and magnificent manicures (and pedicures).  They even have downloadable invitations on their web site.  Should we fly to Florida for our next mammogram?
Even though you know all the risk factors, they still bear repeating:
• Gender: Women are at greater risk than men.
• Age: The older you are, the greater your risk.
• Family history: Genetics count.
• Obesity or overweight: This is especially risky after menopause.
• Lack of exercise: The solution is simple—simply move.
• Alcohol: Your risk increases the more you imbibe.

The American Cancer Society tells us that in 2000 the number of women faithfully getting their mammograms began to decline—a very dangerous trend.  By 2005 mammography rates nationwide had fallen by about four percent.   In August of this year (2009) the Sacremento Business Journal reported that women getting their mammograms has continued to decline by 2% per year.             

Don’t be a boob–whatever it takes to get you motivated–
GET A MAMMOGRAM!