October has come to be known as ‘Pink October’ and many Monegasque organisations, as well as the government, are supporting the cause.

Roughly two million women were diagnosed with breast cancer last year worldwide and of those an estimated 627,000 will die from the disease. That comes out to 15% of all cancer deaths for women.

In Monaco, the Department of Social Affairs and Health supports the campaign in the fight against breast cancer by participating in ‘Pink October’. As part of the movement, Princess Grace Hospital has put up stands devoted to sharing information and heightening awareness and, along with Monaco associations Pink Ribbon Monaco and Listening Cancer Comfort, have mounted a full-on crusade to encourage breast cancer screening. 

To this end, doctors and nurses from Princess Grace Hospital were on hand last Saturday in the Place d’Armes to discuss breast cancer related topics and answer questions.

On Sunday at the Stade Louis II, during the AS Monaco-Rennes football match, stands were set up along the side lines giving information, and €1 entry tickets to those wearing pink.

It is believed that early detection is critical in improving outcomes and survival rates, and screenings, including mammograms, self-examinations and ultrasounds, are the most effective way to do so. Women with higher risk, such as those who have a sibling or parent who had the disease, should be screened yearly, despite their age. Otherwise, yearly screenings should start no later than age 45. 

Photo: Directorate of Communication, Stephane Danna