National Breastcancer Action Day

Young woman wearing a pink ribbon, surrounded by supportive friends, cheerful outdoor setting, with a heartwarming message written in the sky.. — National breastcancer action day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com, your go-to source for all things national day! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of National Breast Cancer Action Day. Get ready to learn, laugh, and show your support for this important cause!

When is Breastcancer Action Day?

It's national breastcancer action day on the 21st October.

A Day of Action for Breast Cancer

On National Breast Cancer Action Day, we come together to raise awareness and take action against breast cancer. This special day, observed on 21st October, aims to empower individuals, educate communities, and promote early detection.

With 162 online mentions, it's clear that people are passionate about spreading the word and supporting breast cancer research. So, let's explore the internet history and the significance of this day!

A Look Back in Time

National Breast Cancer Action Day first gained traction on social media in 2014. Motivated by personal experiences, survivors, supporters, and healthcare professionals joined forces to create a day dedicated to breast cancer awareness and action.

Since then, the online discourse around National Breast Cancer Action Day has grown, with numerous individuals and organizations sharing their stories, fundraising efforts, and initiatives aimed at fighting this disease.

How to Get Involved

On this day, it's all about taking action, whether big or small. Here are some suggestions to make a difference:

Get a mammogram: Early detection can save lives, so schedule your screening if you haven't already.
Donate to reputable organizations: Support the ongoing research and programs aimed at preventing, treating, and ultimately finding a cure for breast cancer.
Spread the word: Use social media platforms to raise awareness, share personal stories, and encourage others to get involved.
Host an event: Organize a fundraising event such as a walk-a-thon, bake sale, or virtual gathering to raise funds and show support for those affected by breast cancer.
Support survivors: Offer a listening ear, send a thoughtful card, or participate in support groups to uplift and inspire individuals who have battled breast cancer.

Did You Know?

The pink ribbon has become an internationally recognized symbol for breast cancer awareness. It originated in the early 1990s when the Susan G. Komen Foundation distributed pink ribbons at its New York City Race for the Cure event. Since then, it has become a powerful emblem of solidarity and hope.

History behind the term 'Breastcancer Action'

1991

Inception of Breast Cancer Action

Breast Cancer Action (BCA) was founded in 1991 by a group of women who were dissatisfied with the mainstream approach to breast cancer advocacy. Their mission was to bring a unique and fearless voice to the breast cancer movement, focusing on prevention, environmental health, and the root causes of the disease.

1990

The Birth of Breast Cancer Action

Breast Cancer Action, a grassroots advocacy organization, was founded in 1990 by five breast cancer activists. These activists, who were frustrated with the lack of attention given to the breast cancer epidemic, came together to create a space for women affected by breast cancer to advocate for their rights, access quality healthcare, and challenge the status quo.

1993

Launch of 'Think Before You Pink'

In 1993, Breast Cancer Action launched their powerful and influential campaign called 'Think Before You Pink.' This campaign aimed to raise awareness and challenge the pink ribbon culture that often prioritizes corporate profit over meaningful action. 'Think Before You Pink' encouraged people to critically evaluate the effectiveness and impact of pink ribbon campaigns, urging them to support organizations that prioritize research on prevention and environmental causes of breast cancer.

1992

Launch of "Think Before You Pink"

In 1992, Breast Cancer Action launched its iconic campaign called "Think Before You Pink." This groundbreaking initiative aimed to challenge the hyper-commercialization of breast cancer and raise awareness about the unethical pinkwashing practices by corporations. BCA sought to inform consumers and encourage critical thinking when purchasing pink ribbon products.

1998

Mobilizing Against Hormone Replacement Therapy

Breast Cancer Action played a pivotal role in mobilizing against the widespread use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopausal symptoms. In 1998, they published a groundbreaking report titled 'Our Bodies, Ourselves: Hormone Replacement Therapy and Breast Cancer.' This report highlighted the links between HRT and increased breast cancer risk, leading to a significant decline in HRT use and a shift towards safer alternatives for women's health.

1994

Groundbreaking Policy Advocacy

Continuing its bold approach, Breast Cancer Action engaged in groundbreaking policy advocacy in 1994. They fought for increased access to affordable healthcare, drug approval policies that prioritize patient safety, and equitable distribution of resources for breast cancer research, treatment, and prevention.

2002

Challenging the Pinkwashing of Corporations

Breast Cancer Action has been at the forefront of challenging the practice of 'pinkwashing.' This term refers to corporations using the pink ribbon symbol and breast cancer awareness to boost their own reputation and sales without genuinely supporting breast cancer prevention or research. In 2002, Breast Cancer Action launched the 'Think Before You Pink' campaign to critically examine pink ribbon marketing, hold corporations accountable, and advocate for transparency and meaningful action.

1998

Achieving Success with Breast Cancer Action's "Think Before You Pink" Campaign

The "Think Before You Pink" campaign gained significant traction in 1998 when BCA successfully urged the Federal Trade Commission to issue more stringent guidelines for cause-related marketing. This victory marked an important step toward ensuring transparency and accountability in pink ribbon cause marketing.

2008

Advocating for True Prevention

Breast Cancer Action has continuously emphasized the importance of preventing breast cancer before it starts. In 2008, they published the landmark report 'State of the Evidence: What Is the Connection Between the Environment and Breast Cancer?' This report highlighted the environmental factors that contribute to breast cancer and called for stronger regulation, corporate accountability, and individual action to reduce exposure to harmful substances.

2002

Challenging Patenting of Human Genes

In 2002, Breast Cancer Action boldly challenged the practice of patenting human genes. They filed a lawsuit against Myriad Genetics and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to invalidate patents on the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. BCA's advocacy efforts played a significant role in the subsequent Supreme Court ruling against gene patenting in 2013.

2012

25th Anniversary of Breast Cancer Action

Breast Cancer Action celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2012. Over the years, their fearless advocacy, commitment to social justice, and focus on the intersectional impacts of breast cancer have made a lasting impact in the field. BCA continues to push for systemic change and prioritize the needs of those affected by breast cancer.

Did you know?

Did you know? The first National Breast Cancer Action Day celebrations had participants wearing pink shirts, called 'rosa boobies,' to show their support!