Breast Cancer Awareness (BCA) month is an international health campaign assembled by multiple charities to show support for all who deal with breast cancer. The celebrated month begins on the date of October 1st until October 31st, dedicating the entire month of October to Breast Cancer Awareness. The classic pink ribbon is often the first to come to mind due to the fact that it is the national symbol for breast cancer. Over the past many years, this movement has helped with the fight to put an end to this trying disease.

According to Brevard Health Alliance, BCA month first began during the year 1985 as a result of a partnership between American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries. A health article on NewJersey.com states the first week involved the help of Betty Ford who herself, was a survivor of breast cancer. Anyone can participate in this movement by buying BCA merchandise to help fund further studies on the matter and by taking part in one of the many “Strut for the cure” walks that take place nationwide. Participating in walks help contribute to the fight to stop breast cancer to people who are able to raise money.

The most well known symbol of Breast Cancer Awareness is the famous pink ribbon. These ribbons, according to the American Cancer Society, “…are worn to honor survivors, remember those lost to the disease, and to support the progress we are making together to defeat breast cancer.” Charlotte Hayey, who battled breast cancer in the early 1990s started making peach colored ribbons to “help wake up legislators and America.” Self magazine loved the idea and asked Charlotte for permission if they could use the ribbon. She refused, so Self had to come up with a different color. Breast Cancer Action says pink was chosen because it was seen as soothing, comforting, and healing. 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month allows medical professionals to help educate people on the symptoms of breast cancer. Detecting if one has breast cancer is very important especially if you can catch it early. According to the American Cancer Society, “when breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.” There is a common misconception men can not get breast cancer.  Although breast cancer may be more common for women, men are still very much at risk. Both men and women should self-exam for symptoms such as lumps or cysts. They should also be on the lookout for any discomfort or pain in the breast region. Pain in the area does not always mean it’s cancer, but it should always be on one’s radar. Mammograms can also be scheduled at hospitals, which allows qualified specialists to examine suspicious areas of the breast tissue. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, these machines have the ability to detect lumps even form and be felt.

Breast cancer, or cancer in general, is a constant disease taking the lives of many loved ones on our planet. It’s important to find ways to help contribute to the cause, whether it be through donations or showing support by wearing a pink pride ribbon. It’s essential to self-exam so you are able to identify the disease early on. Being aware and alert of your body can save your life. All in all, a person should never feel alone due to breast cancer because of the overwhelming support during BCA month.