October is breast cancer awareness month, a time dedicated to increased global awareness of a disease that’s taken the health and lives of countless women. The health campaign began in 1985, when the American Cancer Society ran a weeklong program in partnership with Imperial Chemical Industries. Eventually, this turned into a month-long event.
Breast cancer awareness means spreading information about prevention and early detection of cancer, as well as raising money to support research aimed at reducing the risk and prevalence of the disease. Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women, with two million people being diagnosed each year. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, one in eight women will receive a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. This month helps promote open discussions about the disease.
Beyond just providing an opportunity to talk about the disease, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to educate people on preventative measures. By promoting self-examinations and regular screenings, awareness can actually reduce the mortality rate. Although recommendations vary on when and how often screenings should be done, a breast cancer risk assessment can be completed for people as young as 25. This process takes into account factors such as age and family history of cancer to help determine the likelihood of developing breast cancer. When detected early, breast cancer is generally treatable, which is why it is essential to use these tools.
Charity initiatives for breast cancer have grown in popularity in recent years. Earlier this month, Kamloops hosted its very own CIBC Run for the Cure in Riverside Park. The event surpassed their goal of attendees, who each had to register by donating $45 or raising $150 in pledges. Donations supported patients traveling for treatments and creating wigs, headwear and breast prostheses.
The pink ribbon is the universal symbol for breast cancer awareness. It can be traced to 1991, from a woman named Charlotte Haley, whose sister, mother, and grandmother all battled breast cancer. Haley began making and handing out thousands of peach-coloured ribbons. Along with each ribbon was a card that read, “The National Cancer Institute annual budget is $1.8 billion, only 5 per cent goes for cancer prevention. Help us wake up our legislators and America by wearing this ribbon.”
Word of Haley’s efforts spread, and Estee Lauder, in partnership with Self magazine, offered to run a breast cancer awareness campaign that shifted the colour from peach to pink. Currently, pink ribbons are everywhere during October, continuing to provide community and awareness.
Steady funding is essential not only to fund research that can lead to better diagnosis and treatment, but also to support those in challenging financial times during treatment. The Canadian Cancer Society has a community of monthly donors that also receive monthly impact updates, so you can see how your donations are making an impact.