Jill Biden Urges Women to Get Mammograms

First Lady, Jill Biden, is urging American women to get mammograms during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, as well as all other cancer screenings.

The public service announcement is part of a breast cancer awareness campaign by Lifetime. Biden has been a longtime advocate for education and prevention surrounding breast cancer. In 1993, four of her friends were diagnosed with the disease, and not long afterward, she launched the Breast Health Initiative, which teaches high school girls the importance of early breast cancer detection.

"October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and I'm asking you to put your health first," said the First Lady in the White House Rose Garden.

She continued that American women should take the time to talk to their doctor. Biden said, "There is no one-size-fits-all approach, but we know that early detection of cancer saves lives."

The First Lady is no stranger to cancer. Earlier this year, she had cancerous lesions removed and in 2015, she and Joe Biden's son, Beau, died due to brain cancer at the age of 46.

The importance of screening for breast cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers that impacts women in the United States, according to the CDC. While breast cancer deaths have declined over time due to preventative care and early screening, it is still the second leading cause of death for women. One in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

Regular screenings for breast cancer, among other cancers, increases your chance of survival. Routine checks can also spot other conditions that can reduce further complications.

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast and can detect breast cancer early before further symptoms arise.

Another way to stay on top of breast health is to perform self exams by getting familiar with how your breasts look and feel. Notice a lump, pain, or change in size? This may be a point of concern. Visit your doctor for a more thorough exam.

Celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month by putting your breast health first.