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  • Pink October: a global effort to raise awareness on breast cancer
01.10.2024

Pink October: a global effort to raise awareness on breast cancer

First organised by the American Cancer Society in 1985, Pink October is an annual event raising awareness of breast cancer and the importance of early prevention. An early identification can significantly improve the prognosis of recovery.

Pink October

Pink October, also known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is an annual month of action in October to raise awareness of breast cancer. It was initiated in 1985 by the American Cancer Society aiming to raise awareness on breast cancer, emphasise the importance of prevention, foster research and support those affected. Various organisations worldwide are participating with campaigns, educational events and fundraising activities, also in Switzerland.

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer with women, and early diagnosis of the disease improves the chances of recovery considerably. Men can also be affected by breast cancer, though less frequently. Breast cancer awareness and prevention is of great importance to us all.

Diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer

Early identification

Early identification is an essential part of breast cancer prevention. For women over 50, regular and systematic mammography is recommended to increase the chances of cure and life expectancy. The age group between 50 and 70, determined by the cantonal screening programme, is recommended to have a regular check-up.

Diagnosis

In order to make an accurate diagnosis of breast cancer and thus have the best possible chance of cure, there are various examinations to detect breast abnormalities (palpable lumps, deformation, pain). The best-known method is mammography, which involves taking an X-ray of the breast. Mammography can detect very small tumours even before they are palpable or other symptoms or pain appear.

Treatment

Breast cancer is different for every patient. Whether surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy or other targeted therapies - the treatment is individual and the treatment plan is tailored to the patient. The therapy proposal, which is worked out in a multidisciplinary colloquium, contains details of the treatment and the time schedule.

Breast reconstruction

Breast surgery and breast reconstruction is a very emotional subject. Patients can opt for breast reconstruction and thus feel comfortable in their skin again.

Aftercare

Follow-up care is also an important part of the treatment pathway. Your doctor will inform you about the frequency of follow-up checks. 

Why early identification of breast cancer is so important

Early detection of breast cancer is of key importance as it significantly increases the chances of recovery. If detected at an early stage, the disease can often be treated more gently and successfully. In addition, the risk of metastases can be reduced. If a genetic predisposition is known, tumours can be detected with the help of regular examinations such as mammograms before they are palpable or symptomatic. However, early detection is fundamentally very important for every woman. One of the most important tools is breast self-examination.

Breast self-exam

Early breast cancer detection plays an important role in breast cancer screening as well as prevention. In our video you will learn how you can feel the breast carcinomas and thus take the first important step.

The genetic factor: hereditary breast cancer

Genetic breast cancer is caused by inherited mutations in certain genes that favour the development of cancer. Several generations of a family are often affected. The best-known risk genes include BRCA1 and BRCA2, whose mutations lead to an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

Women who carry such a genetic mutation often opt for more intensive monitoring for early detection.  Preventive measures such as breast tissue removal can also be considered.

Women's health: other topics

Endometriosis: What to do with acute symptoms and pain?

Understanding fibroids and the SONATA method: Interview with Dr Schmid-Lossberg

Pregnancy and birth: why you should strengthen your pelvic floor

Nutrition during pregnancy: these foods will do you a favour and foods you should avoid

Checklist for birth and hospital stay

The baby is coming: Our checklist for the birth and your hospital stay

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  • Pink October: a global effort to raise awareness on breast cancer