October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

History and mission
The first National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) took place in October 1985 and was intended to increase awareness of breast cancer issues, especially the importance of early detection.

During NBCAM, women are encouraged to educate themselves about the disease, perform regular breast self-examinations, and schedule an annual mammogram.

The pink ribbon symbol
The first known use of the pink ribbon was in the fall of 1991, when the Susan G. Komen Foundation had handed them out to participants in its New York City race for breast cancer survivors. In 1993, Evelyn Lauder (of Estée Lauder Inc.) founded The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and used the pink ribbon as its logo, popularizing the symbol and its association with the disease.

Events
Many events take place during October to call attention to breast cancer sufferers and raise funds for research. Some of the more popular events include:

• Breast cancer walks and races - Participants ask friends, family, and coworkers to pledge money on their behalf, with proceeds going to breast cancer organizations. Some employers. have donation-matching programs.
• Popular walks and races include the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and Relay For Life, and the Breast Cancer 3-Day.
• Global Illumination - Landmarks and monuments around the world are illuminated pink to draw attention to breast cancer awareness. This was started by the Estée Lauder company in 2000.
• Pink Days - these are generally small fundraisers put on by schools or employers. Participants usually wear pink and raise money for breast cancer charities in a variety of ways, such as with raffles, bake sales, or by charging admission to the event.