October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October has been declared the international breast cancer awareness month since it was established in 1985 by the pharmaceutical manufacturer AstraZeneca. The month is dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and fundraising to help the cause. Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in the world. Every year, half a million women are killed by breast cancer worldwide, which accounts for 1% of all deaths. During the October campaigns, a special emphasis is put on the importance of timely screening  - with self-tests, clinical exams, mammography and ultra sound. All sorts of fundraisers are held throughout the month: runs and walks for the cure, races, walk-a-thons, BBQs, etc.

The symbol of fight against breast cancer is the pink ribbon introduced by Evelyn Lauder, the VP of Estee Lauder Cosmetics who founded the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Estee Lauder also organized a campaign whereby world-famous landmarks were lit with pink lights in the symbol of the pink ribbon. Such, the Harbour Bridge in Sydney, the Niagara Falls in Canada, and the Constantine Arch in Rome were all lit pink at one point. Numerous brands tailor their products for the breast awareness month -- Lisa Salzer jewelry is making pink ribbon bracelets, Sony is releasing a series of pink electronics products, Save-A-Lot grocer is selling pink reusable bags, Chicago Bears football team will play in pink T-shirts. People around the world take part in the fundraisers and organize "pink days" at school, work and family gatherings.

Feel free to share your experiences, photos and videos of your involvement in Breast Cancer Awareness Month here at NowPublic.