Brazil goes pink for breast cancer awareness

The Congress towers went pink as of Wednesday (Oct 1st) as part of the global Breast Cancer Awareness Month, or “Pink October” campaign, in an effort to raise awareness for breast cancer. A ceremony for the female employees of both congress houses kicked off the campaign, which includes a number of planned events throughout the month.

Doctors reminded the congresswomen and employees of the importance of preventive checkups, self-examination, as well as of reporting any unusual features in their breasts to doctors. Early diagnosis is the most effective factor in curing breast cancer. Still, many women tend to avoid the subject for concerns of ending up mutilated, which results in delayed diagnosis and thus reduces treatment success.

Breast cancer is the most widespread form of cancer in women worldwide. In Brazil, more than 52,000 cases were reported in the past year alone according to the federal government. The estimated rate currently stands around 52 cases for every 100,000 women.

The “Pink October” initiative was joined by Brazil in 2002. In Brasília, other buildings are also illuminated in pink in honor of the efforts against breast cancer.

Translated by Mayra Borges