For some people, October is the month of Halloween, pumpkin carving, and leaves falling. But for other people, October is the month to spread awareness for breast cancer. To show support, many people wear pink, go on walks, and donate money to support those who are fighting or those who have fought against breast cancer.

Breast cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the breast; it can be found in both men and women. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and the second leading cause of death among women. Statistics show that one in eight women will be diagnosed with this form of cancer in their lifetime, but with early detection and treatment, many people can survive and live a normal life.

Many organizations and people show their support for breast cancer awareness by wearing a pink ribbon. This ribbon has become the symbol for breast cancer awareness over time and is used to show support.  It originally started in the mid-1900s when Penney Laingen used a yellow ribbon to show support for her husband and other hostages in Iran. After Laingen’s actions, a ribbon became a message for others to see. The next evolutionary step for the pink ribbon occurred 11 years later, when a bright red ribbon was used to support the awareness of AIDS.  Since 1990, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation handed out bright pink visors for those supporters and survivors running in the Race for the Cure. Just one year later, the foundation was handing out pink ribbons to every participant in their race in New York City. Even though everyone thought this was the first pink ribbon, there was still one before it. Charlotte Hayley, who battled breast cancer, thought of the idea of a peach colored breast cancer awareness ribbon. She would attach them to cards saying, “The National Cancer Institute’s annual budget is 1.8 billion US dollars, and only 5 percent goes to cancer prevention. Help us wake up our legislators and America by wearing this ribbon.” She handed thousands of these cards to spread her message orally. This soon caught attention to encourage other organizations to use the pink ribbon. Not only do many people wear pink ribbons, but also brands of clothes, makeup, food, and many more have made limited edition items that include this small, but meaningful symbol.

After years of research and plenty of support, breast cancer has brought many people together to help spread awareness on this very common disease.  With many supporters and breast cancer survivors participating in walks and fundraisers every year, people look forward to the month of October to spread the awareness of breast cancer.