Health Dialogues

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH 2024

The focus of the month goes beyond pink ribbons. While some find it uplifting, many individuals battling breast cancer feel that their personal experiences with the disease are often overshadowed. Breast Cancer Awareness Month holds varied significance for different individuals. For some, it serves as a 31-day reminder of the life-altering disease, symbolized by pink ribbons. For others, it offers an opportunity to express solidarity with the over 2 million women diagnosed globally each year. Recognizing the campaign's objectives and the emotions of those affected may guide your decision on how to observe the month.
WHAT IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH 2024?
Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024 is an annual international campaign observed every October to raise awareness about breast cancer, encourage early detection, support those affected, and fund research into its causes, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure. During this month, various activities like walks, fundraisers, and educational campaigns are organized worldwide to spread knowledge and promote mammography screenings for early detection.
THEME OF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH 2024
The theme for Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024 is "No one should face breast cancer alone." It focuses on patient-centred care, encompassing medical, emotional, psychological, and social support. The theme also emphasizes addressing gender and socioeconomic inequalities in breast cancer care.
HISTORY OF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
Breast Cancer Awareness Month was first established in 1985 by the American Cancer Society in partnership with Imperial Chemical Industries (now part of AstraZeneca). The goal was to promote awareness of breast cancer and encourage early detection. In 1991, the pink ribbon, a now globally recognized symbol, was introduced by the Susan G. Komen Foundation and Estée Lauder to represent solidarity with breast cancer patients and survivors.
SIGNIFICANCE OF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
The significance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month lies in its far-reaching impact. It raises awareness about breast cancer, encourages early detection through screenings, and supports those affected by the disease. The month also serves to raise funds for breast cancer research, promote healthy lifestyle choices, and celebrate the advancements in treatments that have improved survival rates for many women worldwide.
During October, certain dates are dedicated to highlighting awareness for specific groups within the breast cancer community.
METASTATIC BREAST CANCER AWARENESS DAY (OCTOBER 13)
October 13 is observed in the U.S. as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. An estimated 168,000 women in the country are living with metastatic breast cancer, which occurs when the cancer spreads beyond the breast to other parts of the body. Approximately 30% of early-stage breast cancers are expected to metastasize. Established in 2009, this day aims to raise public awareness about the need for increased funding for metastatic breast cancer research and the development of new treatments.
MEN’S BREAST CANCER AWARENESS WEEK (OCTOBER 17–23)
While breast cancer is more prevalent in women, men can also be affected by the disease. In 2021, President Joe Biden declared October 17 to October 23 as Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week. The American Cancer Society estimates that 2,790 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024, with around 530 expected to die from it. However, stigma and a lack of awareness often hinder early detection and treatment in men, as well as in trans men and non-binary individuals.
This October, let’s unite to raise awareness, spread knowledge, and support the ongoing fight against breast cancer. Remember that no one should face breast cancer alone. Whether it’s by encouraging others to get screened, donating to research, or simply sharing valuable information, everyone can play a role in this critical mission.