Breast cancer month of October
The breast cancer month of October is an international occasion to raise public awareness of the prevention, research and treatment of breast cancer . Breast Cancer Month dates back to an initiative by the American Cancer Society in 1985 and has since received growing attention in developed countries. The days of the event are determined individually by organizations in the individual countries. Benefit events mainly take place in the last week of October.
history
In the Federal Republic of Germany, the German Cancer Society and the German Cancer Aid have supported this day of remembrance with campaigns and factual information. The regional cancer societies in Germany are now using the month to draw attention to their regional activities in this area nationwide. The information work of the German Cancer Aid Foundation is supported by its own organizations as well as by women's self-help after cancer .
Pink ribbon as a symbol
The pink ribbon spread from the USA as a symbol to point out the problem of breast cancer. It dominates as a distinguishing mark at events in North and South America. The ribbon is also being used more and more frequently in Europe, for example at events during Breast Cancer Month in Munich in 2014 and by the Swiss Cancer Society in Zurich. Event locations and public spaces were illuminated in pink in both cities. This was based on events in America, where the White House was already illuminated in pink years ago .