SALISBURY — The Novant Health Foundation Rowan Medical Center will host its 26th annual Patrons’ Ball to again benefit breast health in the community.

The ball will start at 7 p.m. on Sept. 10 in the Peeler Crystal Lounge at Catawba College.

The theme is “Old Hollywood,” and attendees are encouraged to dress in their best ’30s, ’40s and ’50s outfits. Black tie is optional.

“We thought the Hollywood theme would be a lot of fun for our patrons,” Rick Parker, Novant Health Foundation Rowan Medical Center executive director, said in a press release.

The proceeds from the event will go towards purchasing 3-D mammogram technology for the breast center’s new mobile coach. The completed project will make the Rowan Medical Center the first facility in the Novant Health System to have a mobile coach that includes 3-D mammography.

Famous 20th century actresses Greta Garbo and Bette Davis were both diagnosed with breast cancer. Shirley Temple Black was diagnosed in 1972 at 46 years old. Black was one of the first celebrities to speak out openly about breast cancer after a tumor removal and a modified radical mastectomy.

Breast cancer is the second-leading cause of death in women. The 3-D mammography technology can detect 41 percent more invasive breast cancers than traditional mammograms and cuts down on false positives and callbacks by up to 40 percent.

The mobile mammography coach will service workplaces, as well as other places in Rowan County and the surrounding areas.

The Cannon Foundation and Charitable Trust have donated $323,000 to the foundation to buy the custom-built coach.

Last year, the foundation was able to raise $220,000 to add special mammography technology for the breast center.

“Today we have advanced screening procedures such as 3-D mammography that were not available when these women were diagnosed,” Parker said. “By supporting the Patrons’ Ball, donors can extend the reach of that lifesaving technology to more women throughout the community.”

To purchase tickets, become a sponsor or receive more information, call 704-210-6880.