Health

Pink October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October 2024, Cairo, Egypt ̶ Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women globally, accounting for 1 in 6 female deaths. Each year, it accounts for around 25% of all cancers diagnosed in women.

In the Eastern Mediterranean Region, over 130 000 new cases were reported in 2022, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and action.

Every October, the global Pink October campaign aims to increase awareness around breast cancer prevention. Key risks include advancing age, obesity, limited physical activity, alcohol consumption and specific post-menopausal hormonal treatments. While only 5–10% of breast cancers are hereditary, family history of breast cancer should prompt women to take proactive steps to reduce their likelihood of developing the disease.

Risk factors for developing breast cancer

Age

Age

Obesity

Obesity

Family history

Family history of breast cancer