National Breast Cancer Awareness Day

A group of diverse individuals wearing pink ribbons, standing against a backdrop of a vibrant community, expressing support for breast cancer awareness..
National breast cancer awareness day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of National Breast Cancer Awareness Day. It's a day dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and supporting those affected by it. Get ready to learn, laugh, and don some pink ribbons as we explore this important observance!

When is Breast Cancer Awareness Day?

It's national breast cancer awareness day on the 19th October.


A History of National Breast Cancer Awareness Day

Did you know that National Breast Cancer Awareness Day originated as a grassroots effort aimed at promoting breast cancer education and early detection? It all began in 1985 when the American Cancer Society and pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca teamed up to launch what is now known as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As part of their campaign, they designated the third Friday in October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Day, a time for individuals, organizations, and communities to come together and show their support.

Over the years, National Breast Cancer Awareness Day has become a powerful symbol of unity and hope. It serves as an opportunity to spread life-saving information, honor survivors, remember those who have lost their battle with breast cancer, and raise funds for research and support services.

How to Get Involved

On National Breast Cancer Awareness Day, you can make a difference by participating in various activities and initiatives. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Wear pink! Whether it's a pink shirt, ribbon, or accessory, show your support by rocking this vibrant color.
  • Spread the word on social media. Share educational posts, survivor stories, and information about screening and prevention.
  • Donate to reputable breast cancer organizations. Your contribution can help fund research, support services, and access to quality care.
  • Participate in local events. Many communities organize walks, runs, and fundraisers to celebrate National Breast Cancer Awareness Day.

Did You Know?

The pink ribbon is synonymous with breast cancer awareness. But do you know how it became the iconic symbol it is today? It all began in the early 1990s when Alexandra Penney, the editor-in-chief of Self magazine, and Evelyn Lauder, senior corporate vice president of Estée Lauder, collaborated on a breast cancer awareness campaign. They chose the pink ribbon as a symbol of hope, femininity, and nurturing.



History behind the term 'Breast Cancer Awareness'


1980

The birth of the pink ribbon

The term 'breast cancer awareness' began to gain recognition in the early 1980s with the birth of the pink ribbon. In 1980, the Susan G. Komen Foundation handed out pink ribbons to participants in its New York City race for breast cancer survivors. This simple act sparked a powerful symbol and became the cornerstone of breast cancer awareness efforts.


1920

Early Awareness Efforts

Breast cancer awareness can be traced back to the early 20th century when individuals and organizations began taking initiatives to raise awareness about the disease. In 1920, the American Cancer Society (ACS) was founded, with a primary focus on promoting awareness and research for various types of cancer, including breast cancer. This early effort laid the foundation for future awareness campaigns.


1974

Foundation of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation

In 1974, Nancy G. Brinker founded the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in memory of her sister, Susan G. Komen, who died of breast cancer at the age of 36. The foundation aimed to increase awareness about breast cancer and improve early detection and treatment options.



1991

Creation of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In 1991, the first National Breast Cancer Awareness Month was observed in the United States. This initiative was established by the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries (now part of AstraZeneca). The goal was to raise public awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection through regular mammography screenings. Throughout the month of October, various events and activities are organized to raise funds for research, education, and support services.


1983

First National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In 1983, the American Cancer Society partnered with the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries to establish National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The initiative aimed to promote mammography as the most effective method for early detection and prevention of breast cancer.


1974

National Breast Examination Campaign

In 1974, the ACS launched the National Breast Examination Campaign, which aimed to educate women about the importance of regular breast self-examinations. The campaign emphasized the role of early detection in improving the chances of successful treatment. This marked a significant step forward in breast cancer awareness by promoting self-awareness and encouraging women to take proactive measures for their health.



1992

The Estée Lauder Companies' Pink Ribbon Campaign

The year 1992 marked a significant milestone in breast cancer awareness with the launch of The Estée Lauder Companies' Pink Ribbon Campaign. Evelyn H. Lauder, Senior Corporate Vice President of The Estée Lauder Companies and a breast cancer survivor herself, decided to distribute pink ribbons at cosmetic counters nationwide. This campaign aimed to reach millions of women and increase awareness about breast health and the importance of early detection.


1991

Pink Ribbon as a Symbol

In 1991, the Susan G. Komen Foundation distributed pink ribbons to participants in its New York City Race for the Cure. This event marked the beginning of using the pink ribbon as a symbol of breast cancer awareness.


1980

The Pink Ribbon

The iconic pink ribbon, now synonymous with breast cancer awareness, made its debut in 1980. Charlotte Haley, a breast cancer survivor, began using peach-colored ribbons to raise awareness about the lack of funding for breast cancer research. These ribbons were distributed with cards stating, 'The National Cancer Institute's annual budget is $1.8 billion, only 5% goes for cancer prevention. Help us wake up our legislators and America by wearing this ribbon.' This grassroots movement sparked further attention towards breast cancer and paved the way for the pink ribbon as a symbol.



1985

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In 1985, the month of October was designated as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM). The aim was to increase widespread recognition of the disease, promote mammography screenings, and raise funds for research and support services. This dedicated month-long campaign became a pivotal event, uniting various organizations, charities, and individuals in a shared mission to educate, support, and advocate for breast cancer awareness.


1992

Estée Lauder Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign

In 1992, Evelyn H. Lauder, Senior Corporate Vice President of Estée Lauder Companies, launched the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign. The campaign introduced the Pink Ribbon as its symbol and aimed to raise funds for research, education, and medical services for breast cancer.


1997

Susan G. Komen Foundation's Race for the Cure

In 1997, the Susan G. Komen Foundation organized the first Race for the Cure in Washington, D.C. The event, which quickly gained popularity, aimed to raise funds for breast cancer research, education, screening, and treatment programs. The Race for the Cure became a powerful platform for survivors, supporters, and the community to come together in a collective effort to fight breast cancer.



1992

The Pink Ribbon Goes Global

The Susan G. Komen Foundation, known for its relentless efforts in the fight against breast cancer, adopted the pink ribbon as its symbol in 1992. Their collaboration with Estée Lauder Companies further popularized the pink ribbon internationally, making it a universally recognized emblem of breast cancer awareness. This global visibility greatly contributed to raising awareness, supporting patients, and facilitating crucial research initiatives worldwide.


2006

Illuminating landmarks for awareness

Breast cancer awareness took a global stage in 2006 when several iconic landmarks around the world were illuminated in pink light. The Pink Ribbon campaign partnered with organizations in different countries to light up landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, the Empire State Building, and the Eiffel Tower. This eye-catching display of solidarity reinforced the international movement to combat breast cancer.


1993

US Congress Designates October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In 1993, the United States Congress designated October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This resolution aimed to increase federal funding for breast cancer research and encouraged organizations, healthcare providers, and individuals to participate in activities promoting breast cancer awareness.



1997

Global Illumination Initiative

In 1997, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) initiated the Global Illumination Initiative to raise awareness about breast cancer on a global scale. Iconic landmarks, buildings, and spaces worldwide were illuminated in pink to show support for the cause.


2010

Power of Social Media

Advancements in technology and the rise of social media platforms played a significant role in further expanding breast cancer awareness. Starting in the early 2010s, social media campaigns, such as the 'Breast Cancer Awareness Month Challenge,' encouraged individuals to share personal stories and support causes using hashtags and profile picture filters. The power of viral content enabled swift dissemination of important information, empowering individuals to engage and contribute to the cause.


2009

Launch of the 'Know Your Lemons' Campaign

In 2009, the Worldwide Breast Cancer organization launched the innovative and educational 'Know Your Lemons' campaign. Using a visual representation of lemons, the campaign aimed to increase breast cancer literacy by educating women about the various signs and symptoms of the disease.



Did you know?

Did you know that the pink ribbon, symbolizing breast cancer awareness, can be traced back to a dream in which Evelyn Lauder saw a pink ribbon floating in front of her? Talk about a dream come true!

Tagged

romance awareness fun loved ones

First identified

16th October 2015

Most mentioned on

19th October 2019

Total mentions

26

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