During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Governor Hochul Announces State Surpassed National Goal for Breast Cancer Screenings for the Second Year in a Row

Governor Kathy Hochul announced New York has once again surpassed the national goal for breast cancer screenings, for the second year in a row. New data has found that an estimated 82 percent of New York State females ages 50-74 years are up to date with breast cancer screening recommendations. On the evening of October 2, 2026, Governor Hochul directed landmarks across the state to illuminate pink in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and to raise awareness about the importance of breast cancer screenings and early detection. In New York State, breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among females.

"During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I encourage all New Yorkers to remember those we've lost to this devastating disease, while honoring the strength of survivors and supporting those still living with cancer," Governor Hochul said. "As monuments across New York are illuminated pink, we reaffirm our commitment to early detection and equitable access to care."

New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, "A breast cancer diagnosis can have a profound impact on a person's life. Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder that early detection and early treatment can save lives. This month and all year round I encourage individuals to get regular mammograms. Those with a family history of breast cancer should speak to a healthcare provider to find out if they're at a greater risk of getting the disease."

Each year, close to 18,000 New Yorkers are diagnosed with breast cancer and nearly 2,300 die from the disease.

Mammograms can find breast cancer early when it may be easier to treat and before there are any signs or symptoms of a problem. The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends having a screening mammogram every other year beginning at age 40 and continuing through age 74. This recommendation is for females, people with dense breasts, people with a family history of breast cancer, transgender men and non-binary persons assigned female at birth. People at higher risk of breast cancer should follow their health care provider's guidance about when to begin screening, how often to be screened and whether any additional screening tests are needed.

New York State remains committed to reducing disparities to ensure all new Yorkers can get breast cancer screenings, follow-up tests, treatment if necessary and survivorship support.

Governor Hochul signed legislation in 2024 expanding insurance coverage of breast cancer screening and imaging to include nationally recognized guidelines. As early diagnosis and treatment are vital, this important legislation ensures New Yorkers have access to critical screening and diagnostic services. For the second year in a row, New York State surpassed national breast cancer screening goals. These milestones underscore the state's efforts to promote early detection and is a testament to the dedication of the many statewide partners, advocates and health systems committed to reducing barriers and improving health outcomes.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the following landmarks will be illuminated pink on the evening of Friday, October 2:

• One World Trade Center
• Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
• Kosciuszko Bridge
• The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
• State Education Building
• Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
• Empire State Plaza
• State Fairgrounds - Main Gate & Expo Center
• Niagara Falls
• The "Franklin D. Roosevelt" Mid-Hudson Bridge
• Grand Central Terminal - Pershing Square Viaduct
• Albany International Airport Gateway
• MTA LIRR - East End Gateway at Penn Station
• Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
• Moynihan Train Hall
• Roosevelt Island Lighthouse

New York State remains committed to ensuring consumers who are covered by health insurance policies issued in New York are aware of their breast cancer screening and treatment rights.

The New York State Cancer Services Program also provides free breast cancer screening and diagnostics services to uninsured, eligible New Yorkers.