Industry News

Each October, pink ribbons appear everywhere — from sports uniforms to store displays to social media feeds. Breast Cancer Awareness Month has become one of the most recognized health campaigns in the world. And while the visibility is powerful, it invites us to look deeper: what does meaningful awareness really mean today? What are the Realities of Breast Cancer Awareness Month?

Building Awareness. Expanding Access.

Mammograms remain the best tool for early detection for women ages 40–74, according to the CDC. Detecting breast cancer early greatly improves treatment options and survival rates. But while progress has been made, access is not always equal.

• Black women face higher rates of aggressive forms such as triple-negative breast cancer.
• Latina women are screened less often, often leading to later diagnoses.
• Women in rural areas may struggle with long travel times and limited access to screening facilities.

Breaking down these barriers requires real action:

• Bringing mobile mammography units into underserved communities
• Ensuring insurance coverage so cost isn’t a barrier
• Educating about personal risk factors like genetics and family history
• Partnering with trusted community voices to reduce fear and build trust
• Supporting workplace policies that allow preventive care without penalty

Pink Power — and Pink Pushback

The pink ribbon, introduced in the 1990s, gave breast cancer visibility like never before. It united survivors, fueled fundraising, and helped lift the stigma of talking about breast cancer.

But as awareness has grown, so has debate. For many, pink is still a source of strength and solidarity. For others, the symbol feels oversimplified or overly commercialized — sometimes more about marketing than real impact, often referred to as “pinkwashing.” The takeaway? The ribbon matters, but it must be paired with meaningful support, equity, and research.

Including Every Voice

Another important shift in recent years has been advocacy for women living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Campaigns like Stage IV Needs More and online communities using #MBC have helped ensure these voices are not left out of the conversation. True awareness must reflect the experiences of all women, at every stage of the disease.

From Pink to Progress

Breast Cancer Awareness Month began as a way to break silence and start conversations. Today, it must go further. Awareness should mean progress — more access, more equity, more support, and more listening.

This October, let’s celebrate the progress that has been made, but also commit to meaningful action that drives healthier futures for all.

Inspired by a recent article from Dynarex that challenged us to think beyond the ribbon and reimagine what awareness should look like today.

October 17 is National Mammography Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of mammograms in detecting breast cancer early. Mammography is a critical tool in women’s health, helping to identify potential issues before symptoms appear, which can dramatically improve treatment outcomes and save lives.

At Z&Z Medical, we proudly support mammography centers with a full range of chairs, positioning accessories, and consumables to help technologists perform accurate, efficient exams. From ensuring patient comfort to maintaining smooth department workflows, our products help healthcare professionals provide the best possible care.

National Mammography Day is a reminder for women everywhere: don’t skip your yearly mammogram. Early detection is the most effective way to fight breast cancer, and awareness is the first step in taking control of your health.

If you work in a mammography department, explore Z&Z Medical’s mammography solutions to help your team provide safe, efficient, and high-quality care to the patients you serve.

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Annual Meeting takes place October 12–14, bringing together health information professionals to explore the latest in data management, technology, and compliance. While Z&Z Medical won’t be attending this year, we proudly support the work AHIMA does to advance the field and help healthcare facilities operate efficiently.

From workflow solutions to imaging accessories and department support products, Z&Z Medical is dedicated to helping healthcare professionals deliver the best patient care while staying organized and compliant. We carry an array of products that keep departments workflows moving.

We salute AHIMA and all health information professionals this October — your work matters, and we’re here to support it.

At Z&Z Medical, we know that great products are only part of the equation — exceptional customer service is what truly sets us apart. That’s why, as we celebrate Customer Service Week (October 6–10), we want to recognize our amazing team who makes every interaction seamless, professional, and personal.

Our dedication to customer support is why Z&Z Medical continues to grow and thrive, even in today’s fast-paced and unpredictable world. From helping dealers find the right products to assisting medical facilities with timely solutions, our team goes above and beyond to ensure every customer feels valued and supported.

We’re proud of the relationships we’ve built over the years and remain committed to offering the best service in the medical imaging and radiology accessory industry.

This week, and every week, thank you for trusting Z&Z Medical — we’re here to make your experience smooth, efficient, and exceptional.

The American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO), is an organization of physicians and scientists designed to disseminate the results of scientific research, promote excellence in patient care and provide opportunities for educational and professional development.

Come visit the ASTRO Annual Meeting, September 27 – October 1, 2025, in San Francisco—the premier event for radiation oncology professionals worldwide. This year will spotlight the powerful connection between Radiopharma and Radiation Therapy, showcasing cutting-edge advancements that are shaping the future of patient care.

Z&Z Medical is proud to be a trusted provider of Mirion Technologies’ industry-leading solutions. At ASTRO, you’ll have the opportunity to explore featured products including:

• Mirion’s EC2 Dose Calibrator – delivering precision and reliability for today’s demanding clinical environments.

• Capintec Lung Ventilation Systems – designed to support optimal imaging, efficiency, and patient safety.

We’re excited for you to see these innovations highlighted at the meeting and for you to connect with the professionals driving progress in radiation therapy. Mark your calendar and see—where science, technology, and patient care meet. 

Reach out to us after the show to assist you with all your imaging needs at www.zzmedical.com