Have you ever wondered how the pink ribbon became the symbol of breast cancer? Why October is recognized as “Pinktober” and is known as the month of Breast Cancer Awareness?
It’s the time of year for pumpkins, bonfires, apple cider, corn mazes, haunted houses and hayrides. In the middle of celebrating falling leaves and free candy, it is also time for ladies to display pink ribbons, sweaters and accessories.
The pink ribbon has became the universal symbol of breast cancer. It raises awareness of breast cancer and the importance of early detection, bringing women together in solidarity.
The first inspiration for ribbons occurred in 1976, when the wife of an American hostage in Iran tied yellow ribbons around the trees in her front yard as a symbol of hope that her husband would be released and return home. During the Gulf War, yellow ribbons were worn to show support for soldiers in the field. Soon after, ribbons became known as a symbol for a cause or charity.
In the early 1990s, Charlotte Haley came up with the idea to use a ribbon to honor her mother, her sister and her grandmother, who had all battled breast cancer. She created peach ribbons and distributed them in sets of five with a card that stated that the National Cancer Institute’s annual budget was $1.8 billion, with only 5 percent going to cancer prevention. Self Magazine Editor Alexandra Penney was working on the October issue featuring Breast Cancer Awareness.
When Penney heard of Haley’s efforts to raise awareness, she offered her national support, but Haley refused.
With Haley’s rejection, the color pink became the national color for Breast Cancer Awareness. For almost four decades, our country has recognized October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
According to the American Association for Cancer Research, breast cancer is the most common type of non-skin cancer in women in the United States.
It accounts for 30 percent of all new cancer cases and is second to lung cancer.
About 1-in-8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer during their lifetime.
Like most cancers, the risk of breast cancer increases with age. According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 310,720 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.
It is estimated that 42,250 will die of the disease.
It doesn’t matter who you are – or where you live – breast cancer can touch your life.
It is important to understand the warning signs and risks. Knowing your family history can save your life. If you have family members who have suffered from the disease, you and your doctor can create a plan to monitor your health and recognize signs.
Early detection is key to surviving this disease. It is also important to have a mammogram every year after the age of 40.
This screening may detect early signs and symptoms, and could save your life.
It is also important for you to know what is normal for you and if something doesn’t look right or feel right, see your healthcare provider.
Living a healthy lifestyle is also a good preventative.
Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol and exercising regularly could help prevent breast – and other types of cancer – from invading your body.
Oct. 18 has been designated as the day to wear pink clothing, accessories and pink ribbons, to show support for breast cancer awareness and support. Stand with those who have been affected by this cancer and join in the fight to prevent it.
Spread the word and tell others. Share early detection tips and the importance of regular screenings.
Honor friends and family members who are in the fight or those who have lost their fight to this dreaded disease.
It is so much more than wearing a pink ribbon. Understanding the goals behind the “Pinktober” campaign may save a life.
It may be yours – or the life of someone you love.
Next week: The Graham Star begins its annual 4-part series, focusing on those who have successfully battled breast cancer. Meet four Graham County “Survivors” throughout the month, beginning with our Oct. 10 edition.