National Got Checked Day
August 26
About National Got Checked Day
National Got Checked Day takes place on 26 August each year and encourages people to prioritise early detection of breast cancer through routine screenings. Founded in 2021 by the nonprofit First Company Pink, the day poses one simple question, “got checked?”, and asks women and men of all ages to book the health checks that can catch problems early.
What is National Got Checked Day?
National Got Checked Day is an annual health awareness day dedicated to the importance of early breast cancer detection. It was created by First Company Pink, a United States nonprofit founded by breast cancer survivors Donna Cioffi and Linda Bonanno, who have long campaigned for better access to screening. The day is built around a clear call to action: do not put off your screenings, and encourage the people you care about to do the same. While the focus is breast cancer, the wider message is that regular preventive checks and informed lifestyle choices help protect everyone’s health.
When is National Got Checked Day?
National Got Checked Day falls on Wednesday, 26 August 2026. It is observed on the same fixed date every year, so it always lands on 26 August regardless of the day of the week. The date was chosen to honour Donna Cioffi, the founder and president of First Company Pink, who describes herself as a cancer thriver.
Why National Got Checked Day Matters
Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women worldwide, and early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. When breast cancer is found at an early, localised stage, survival rates are far higher than when it is detected after it has spread. Despite this, many people delay or skip screenings because of fear, cost, or simply being too busy. National Got Checked Day exists to cut through that hesitation with a friendly, direct reminder. By framing screening as a normal, routine part of looking after yourself, the campaign aims to remove stigma and make the decision to book an appointment feel straightforward.
How to Get Involved in National Got Checked Day
There are many ways to take part, whether you are looking after your own health or supporting others:
- Book your own screening – Use the day as the prompt to schedule a mammogram or speak to your doctor about which checks are right for your age and risk level.
- Learn how to check yourself – Familiarise yourself with how your body normally looks and feels so you can spot any changes early and raise them with a healthcare professional.
- Remind someone you love – Send a message to a friend, partner, or family member asking the simple question: have you got checked?
- Share the message online – Post about the day on social media to reach people who may have been putting off an appointment.
- Support First Company Pink – Learn about the organisation’s advocacy work, including its campaign to lower the age at which mammogram screening is covered.
- Wear pink – The colour pink has become shorthand for breast cancer awareness, and wearing it can spark conversations and show solidarity.
- Talk to your workplace – Encourage your employer or team to mark the day with a reminder email, a lunchtime talk, or a health information session.
- Know your family history – Understanding whether breast or other cancers run in your family helps you and your doctor make informed decisions about screening.
History of National Got Checked Day
National Got Checked Day was established in 2021 by First Company Pink, a nonprofit organisation focused on early prevention and breast health education. The organisation was founded by Donna Cioffi and Linda Bonanno, both breast cancer survivors who turned their personal experiences into a campaign to help others avoid late diagnoses.
Much of First Company Pink’s work has centred on improving access to screening. The founders have advocated for legislative change, including efforts to revise the age requirements that determine when insurance covers regular mammograms. Their broader argument is that earlier and more consistent screening saves lives, and that policy should reflect that reality.
National Got Checked Day grew out of this mission as a dedicated annual moment to amplify the message. Rather than focusing solely on those already affected by cancer, the day is designed to reach the much larger group of people who have simply not got around to booking a check. Setting it on 26 August, in honour of the founder, gives the campaign a fixed point in the calendar that supporters can build around year after year.
Noteworthy Facts About National Got Checked Day
- The day was founded in 2021 by the nonprofit First Company Pink.
- It is observed on 26 August every year, a fixed date that honours founder Donna Cioffi.
- First Company Pink was co-founded by breast cancer survivors Donna Cioffi and Linda Bonanno.
- The campaign’s central message is a single question: “got checked?”
- The organisation has campaigned to lower the age at which insurers cover annual mammogram screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Got Checked Day?
It is an annual awareness day held on 26 August that encourages people to prioritise early breast cancer detection by booking routine screenings. It was created by the nonprofit First Company Pink.
When is National Got Checked Day in 2026?
National Got Checked Day is on Wednesday, 26 August 2026. It falls on the same date every year.
Who founded National Got Checked Day?
The day was founded in 2021 by First Company Pink, a United States nonprofit set up by breast cancer survivors Donna Cioffi and Linda Bonanno. The date honours Donna Cioffi, the organisation’s founder and president.
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by sharing National Got Checked Day with your friends, family, and followers. Use the hashtags #NationalGotCheckedDay and #GotChecked2026 on social media. The more people who answer “got checked?” with a yes, the more lives early detection can save.
Related Awareness Days
- Breast Cancer Awareness Month – The month-long October campaign that brings global attention to breast cancer prevention, detection, and support.
- Wear it Pink – A popular fundraising day where people wear pink to raise money and awareness for breast cancer research.
- National No Bra Day – An October awareness day that uses a bold concept to encourage breast cancer screening and self-examination.
Links
- Visit the official National Got Checked Day website
- Explore more awareness days at AwarenessDays.com
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