Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an international health campaign held every October to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer, with a focus on promoting early screening and prevention of the disease, which affects 2.3 million women worldwide.
Across the UK, various health organisations, charities and individuals join forces to highlight the importance of early detection, support ongoing research and offer support to those affected by the disease.
Whether it is wearing pink, organising fundraisers, or supporting charitable initiatives, there are several ways you can get involved. We look at some of those in a little more detail below:
What is Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is held every October and aims to educate people about the signs, symptoms and treatment of breast cancer. According to Breast Cancer Now, breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with 1 woman diagnosed every 10 minutes.
Around 55,000 women and 400 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in the UK, and 1 in 7 women in the UK will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.
Source:
https://breastcancernow.org/about-us/why-we-do-it/breast-cancer-facts-and-statistics/
How Can You Get Involved with Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
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Wear it Pink
There are lots of ways to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with one of the most popular initiatives being the ‘Wear it Pink’ day, which takes place every October. Hosted by Breast Cancer Now, this is a nationwide event that encourages people to wear pink to raise money “At work. At school. At home. Wherever you do it, wear pink and raise money to help fund life-changing breast cancer research and support.”
You can learn more about how to sign up and take part by visiting:
https://breastcancernow.org/wear-it-pink/
Our Offices proudly supported Wear it Pink Day on Friday 18th October 2024.
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Macmillan Cancer Support
Macmillan offers not only financial support and healthcare advice but also emotional guidance for those diagnosed with cancer, including breast cancer. Their community of nurses, volunteers, and professionals work tirelessly to make sure that no one has to face cancer alone. Macmillan also helps patients navigate the NHS and provides information about treatments and living with cancer.
Macmillan Coffee Mornings are popular fundraising events where individuals and teams gather to share coffee and cake while raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. Last month, at Bridge McFarland LLP, we held our own coffee morning on 26th September and were pleased to raise over £300 for Macmillan.
You can learn more about hosting your own event here:
https://www.macmillan.org.uk/coffee-morning/how-to-host
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CoppaFeel!
CoppaFeel! focuses on educating younger women (and men) about breast cancer and encourages people to check their breasts regularly and be aware of the signs of cancer. With an emphasis on early detection, they provide tools and reminders to help people take proactive steps in checking their health.
CoppaFeel! was founded in 2009 by Kris Hallenga and her twin sister Maren, after Kris was diagnosed with incurable (stage 4 / secondary) breast cancer at the age of 23. Kris sadly died in 2024, and the foundation is committed to honouring her legacy by continuing to spread their chest-checking message. Find out more about the charity here:
https://coppafeel.org/about-us/our-story-kris-story-about-coppafeel/
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The Pink Ribbon Foundation
The Pink Ribbon Foundation is a grant making trust with a mission to fund projects and provide financial support to UK charities which relieve the needs of people who are suffering from, have been affected by breast cancer, or who work to advance the understanding of breast cancer and its early detection and treatment. Find out more about how you can get involved in one of their fundraising events:
https://www.pinkribbonfoundation.org.uk/givesupport
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of breast cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes. It is crucial to perform self-examinations and get access to screening, such as mammograms or ultrasounds, to identify the disease before it progresses.
If you notice any changes in the appearance, size, or feel of your breasts, it is essential to seek prompt medical advice. Breast Cancer Now provides valuable healthcare information on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, along with guidance on how to check your breasts:
Signs and symptoms of breast cancer
The NHS offers free breast screening for women aged 50 to 71 every three years, but it is never too early to start being breast aware. For more information on screenings and self-checks, visit NHS Breast Screening: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-screening-mammogram/
