By Kavya Thathsarani

October isn't just about cosy weather and pumpkin spice...it's also a month painted in pink. Everywhere you look, there's a gentle reminder of strength, survival, and the unbreakable bond of sisterhood. This is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when the world comes together to talk and take action against one of the most common cancers affecting women today. 

A Little Bit of History 

The story of Breast Cancer Awareness Month began back in 1985, thanks to a partnership between the American Cancer Society and Imperial Chemical Industries, a pharmaceutical company that produced cancer drugs. Their goal was to promote early detection and raise public understanding about breast cancer (a simple but life-changing move!). Over the years, the pink ribbon became its symbol, spreading globally as a quiet yet powerful emblem of hope, strength, and solidarity. 

Who Should Be Aware?

The answer is...everyone. While breast cancer is most common among women, men can be affected too (though it's much rarer). 

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women worldwide, affecting millions each year. It's especially common among women aged 40 and above, but awareness and self-check habits should start much earlier. 

Importance of Spreading Awareness 

In simple terms, early detection can save lives. When breast cancer is found in its early stages, the chances of successful treatment are very high. But the thing is, early detection only happens when people know what to look for and take action. According to the WHO, roughly half of all breast cancers occur in women with no specific risk factors other than sex and age.

That's where self-awareness comes in... encouraging regular self-exams, annual screenings, and also breaking the silence or fear that often surrounds this topic. Educating yourself about this topic will motivate you to take early prevention steps while reducing the risk of developing it. 

Your Guide to Breast Cancer Awareness 

Get familiar with how your breasts look and feel when they’re normal. You can spot any unusual changes in your breasts early on with the help of monthly self-examinations. 

Schedule screenings annually, as mammograms can detect lumps long before they're noticeable. (This saves countless lives every single year!)

When breast cancer is first suspected, it's important to get a proper clinical evaluation and diagnosis, along with a referral for timely treatment before the disease progresses. 

Have conversations on this topic with your friends, family, and co-workers. Let everyone know as awareness grows when we share it. 

You can support the cause by joining awareness campaigns and walks, wearing pink, or even donating to trusted cancer organisations. You can even donate clothes, food, and other essentials to cancer hospitals. Every small action you take makes a big difference!

A Glimpse of the Global Picture 

As of recent WHO data, over 2.3 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually. And sadly, hundreds of thousands lose their lives to it. But survival rates are steadily improving, thanks to awareness and better screening methods, along with advanced treatments. This is an opportunity to honour the strong, brave people fighting the disease and also to honour and celebrate breast cancer survivors! 

So remember, October is a gentle reminder to pause and protect ourselves, our mothers, our sisters, friends, and even strangers. Let's learn about breast cancer and help spread awareness by taking action, showing support, and spreading light in a world that sometimes overlooks what truly matters. 
As the saying goes, "Prevention is better than cure," and awareness is the first step towards saving lives...