The Municipality of Athens, as part of its health prevention programs, offers women who are residents and citizens of Athens the opportunity to undergo a free mammogram staring Monday, Oct. 21.

This initiative’s goal, which is organized by the Directorate of Municipal Clinics & Public Health in collaboration with the Friends of the General Oncology Hospital Agioi Anargyroi, is the early diagnosis of breast cancer, as regular mammogram screenings can reduce mortality from the disease by 30%.

In Greece, approximately 7,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, with it being the most common form of cancer in women, and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

Statistics show that 1 in 9 women in Europe will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives, with this rate for Greece estimated at around 1 in 12, with the cases unfortunately rising.

In Europe more than 60% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at an early stage, while in Greece, this percentage is significantly lower, according to data released by Greece’s National Plan against Cancer.

This indicates that women in Greece are not sufficiently informed, nor are they accustomed to taking preventative actions in order to safeguard their health.

It is important to emphasize that if breast cancer is diagnosed and treated in its early stages, more than 95% of cases can be successfully managed.

Eligibility requirements for mammogram screenings:

• Women aged 40 to 69 (residents and citizens of the Municipality of Athens).
• Must not have had a mammogram in the past 12 months.
• Must have no history of breast cancer, biopsy, or cosmetic breast surgery.
• Must not be menstruating (from 3 days before to 5 days after their period).
• Must provide their social security number (AMKA) and previous mammogram results (if available).
• Must possess valid residency permits, ID cards, or passports, as well as proof of residence.

Mammogram Appointments

The free mammograms will be conducted at the building of the Friends of the General Oncology Hospital Agioi Anargyroi, located at 2 Tirynthos Street, Ano Patissia, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm on the following days: Monday, Oct. 21; Tuesday, Oct. 22; Wednesday, Oct. 23; and Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024.

Appointments will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis and can be made by calling the 5th Municipal Clinic – Ano Patissia, call 210 2015510-11 (extensions 119-120).