Pink October: How to Prevent Breast Cancer and What is the Procedure for Self-Examination?

With the arrival of October, streets, buildings, and social media turn pink. Even pink ribbons on clothing commemorate Pink October, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer and its prevention.

You may be asking why this particular disease has its own month. It is, in fact, the most common cause of cancer deaths among women worldwide. However, these alarming statistics also have a bright side. If this disease is detected early, the chance of a complete cure is very high. And that is precisely why Pink October is here, to remind you that early diagnosis can save your life.

Let us collectively examine how breast cancer actually develops, how it manifests, how to prevent it, and how to ensure it is detected in time.

Pink October and Its Significance

The message of Pink October is clear. This month, also known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, annually draws attention to a disease responsible for one in six deaths among women worldwide. It also accounts for up to 25% of all newly diagnosed cancers in women annually. ^[1,8]

While we associate breast cancer with women, it is important to remember that it also affects men. Although they account for only 0.5% – 1% of cases, it is very important for them to have information about prevention. Therefore, Pink October should not be perceived as being dedicated solely to women. ^[1,8]

History of Pink October

The initiative’s story began in 1985 when the American Cancer Society, together with Imperial Chemical Industries, established Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Their goal was to encourage women to undergo regular mammographic screenings and thus support early diagnosis. ^[1,3]

The symbolic pink ribbon has its own story. In 1991, activist Charlotte Haley began making and distributing peach-coloured ribbons to draw attention to the chronic lack of funding for cancer prevention. However, when large companies noticed her idea, they changed the colour to pink, and the campaign became a global phenomenon. Today, the pink ribbon is an international symbol of hope, determination, and solidarity. ^[11]

What is Breast Cancer and who is at Risk?

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow out of control and begin to multiply uncontrollably. This process typically begins in the milk ducts or milk glands. The resulting formation, a tumour, can be non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). Benign tumours are not cancerous. However, malignant ones can metastasise, meaning they can spread through the blood and lymphatic system to other parts of the body. The development of breast cancer can take months to years, often without any initial symptoms. ^[22]

Breast cancer most commonly appears in women over fifty, but younger women should not be overlooked. In women under forty, this disease is less common, but if it occurs, it can be more aggressive. One of the reasons is that it is often detected later in this age group, as symptoms are overlooked and regular mammographic screenings are not performed. ^[10]

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Since breast cancer may not manifest at all in its early stages or symptoms can be easily overlooked, regular breast self-examination and preventive check-ups are crucial.

Pay attention to these most common symptoms:

A lump or thickening of tissue in the breast or armpit. A common misconception is that a cancerous lump must be painful; however, in most cases, the opposite is true.
Changes in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast.
Changes in the skin of the breast, such as redness, dimpling resembling an orange peel, or scaling.
Nipple changes, such as inversion or discharge. ^[13]

You may be wondering if breast pain, stinging, or itching is a symptom of cancer. Fortunately, in most cases, these are benign changes often related to hormonal fluctuations. You may also regularly experience breast pain or tenderness as part of PMS (premenstrual syndrome). Nevertheless, if you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms, it is always best to get examined.

Risk Factors for Development

Breast cancer is not merely a matter of chance. Although in many cases we cannot precisely determine the cause, numerous factors increase the likelihood of its development. Some we cannot influence, while others are entirely within our control. Let us examine them more closely.

Factors You Cannot Influence

1. Gender

Being female is the most significant risk factor for developing breast cancer. Almost 99% of all cases occur in women, although, as previously mentioned, it also affects men. ^[8]

2. Age

Age is the second most significant factor, as the risk of developing breast cancer dramatically increases with age. Most cases are diagnosed in women over fifty. ^[12]

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer Development

3. Menstrual Cycle

The risk of breast cancer is also influenced by the number of menstrual cycles a woman experiences during her lifetime. Women who have a higher risk are those who:

have not had children,
had their first pregnancy after the age of 30 years of age,
had their first menstruation before the age of 12,
had menopause after the age of 55.

All these factors increase the total number of menstrual cycles in a woman’s life. ^[9]

4. Family History and Genetics

If breast or ovarian cancer has occurred in your close relative, your risk of developing the disease also increases. This is because, while most cases of breast cancer are not hereditary, some are caused by gene mutations that run in families.

The most well-known are mutations in the BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB-2 genes, which significantly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Therefore, it is important to know your family history, and if such a disease has occurred in your family, to consult a doctor. ^[8,17]

5. Breast Tissue Density

Did you know that breast tissue can have varying densities, and this affects the risk of breast cancer? Your breasts are composed of glandular, fibrous, and fatty tissue. If you have dense breast tissue, it means you have more glands and fibrous tissue and less fat in your breasts. This condition is not only an independent risk factor for cancer development but can also make tumour detection by mammography more difficult. ^[4]

How do you find out if you have dense tissue? Only a mammographic examination will provide you with a clear answer. Based on the results, your doctor will tell you if you fall into the dense tissue category. In such a case, they may recommend additional examinations, such as a breast ultrasound. Nevertheless, it is important to continue attending mammography screenings diligently. Women who are not yet eligible for regular screening can consult a gynaecologist about breast tissue density. ^[4]

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6. Exposure to Radiation

Although many important examinations require radiation (e.g., X-rays, CT scans), it is good to be aware that ionising radiation can increase the risk of cancer, including breast cancer. However, it is not the case that every single radiation exposure automatically causes cancer. The key is at what stage of life and to what doses an individual is exposed.

An increased risk has been demonstrated, particularly with repeated and strong radiation exposure. For example, studies have shown that girls and young women who underwent frequent chest X-rays (on average at least 24 times), for instance due to scoliosis or tuberculosis treatment, had an increased risk of breast cancer. This manifested 15 to 50 years after exposure. ^[5]

It is therefore important for doctors to use examinations involving ionising radiation only in necessary cases. However, if an examination is truly necessary, its benefit is, of course, higher than the risk of breast cancer appearing in several years. ^[5]

Factors You Can Influence

1. Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol is one of the main risk factors that you can influence. Scientists agree that even a small amount of alcohol can increase the risk of breast cancer.

Why is this the case? Alcohol increases levels of estrogen, a hormone that can promote the growth of cancer cells. Furthermore, alcohol is converted in the body into carcinogenic substances that damage DNA. Therefore, the best prevention is to limit alcohol consumption to a minimum. ^[2,7]

2. Smoking

Smoking significantly increases the risk of breast cancer, not only if you actively smoke but also if you passively inhale smoke. Many substances in cigarette smoke are carcinogenic and can directly damage DNA in breast tissue cells. These toxins also weaken the body’s immune system, making it harder to fight cancer cells.

One extensive study of over 80,000 women found that the risk increased by 16% in active smokers. Women who started smoking at a young age are most at risk. If you already smoke, quitting as soon as possible is one of the best decisions for your health. ^[6]

3. Overweight and Obesity

Overweight and obesity are among the main risk factors for developing breast cancer, especially after menopause. Excess body fat can increase the level of estrogen, a hormone that promotes the growth of cancer cells. ^[18]

However, the risk does not apply only to older women. Studies have shown that obesity is also associated with a higher risk of more aggressive types of breast cancer before menopause. In obese women, the risk of developing these types of cancers was 43% to 80% higher than in women of healthy weight. ^[5]

4. Hormone Therapy after Menopause

Although the impact of artificially administered hormones on breast cancer risk is still being researched, we know it is important to be cautious. Hormone replacement therapy, used by postmenopausal women, can increase the risk, especially if it combines estrogen and progesterone. Conversely, estrogen alone does not increase this risk. ^[5,15]

Regarding contraceptive pills, studies suggest that the risk of cancer increases during their use. However, after discontinuation, it gradually returns to normal. A recent extensive study in Denmark showed that hormonal contraception increased the risk of breast cancer by an average of 20%. ^[5]

5. Lack of Physical Activity

If you lead a sedentary lifestyle and are not physically active, you expose yourself to a higher risk of developing cancer, including breast cancer. The mechanism is similar to that of obesity. Regular exercise helps to regulate hormone levels such as estrogen and insulin. Their excess can promote the growth of cancer cells. Physical activity also strengthens the immune system and reduces inflammatory processes in the body, which are factors contributing to the development of this disease. ^[19]

6. Nutrition

While there is no miracle food that can prevent breast cancer, what you eat is one of the risk factors. A diet rich in highly processed foods, sugars, and red meat can increase the risk of the disease. Scientists agree that unhealthy eating habits can contribute to obesity and inflammatory processes associated with breast cancer.

The Impact of Improper Nutrition on Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Prevention through Self-Examination and Screening

As we have already stated, early diagnosis is crucial for breast cancer. Thanks to modern examinations, you have effective tools at your disposal to detect it in its early stages, when the chance of a cure is highest. Additionally, you can do a lot for yourself at home through self-examination. The basis of early diagnosis is a combination of three methods: self-examination, ultrasound, and mammography.

Breast Self-Examination

Self-examination may seem simple, but it is an extremely important method through which you can notice any changes early. It is recommended to perform it once a month, ideally 2 – 3 days after the start of menstruation.

During menopause, you can choose any day of the month. Self-examination includes visual inspection in front of a mirror and palpation (standing or lying down). It is important to note not only lumps in the breast but also any changes in shape, size, skin colour, or nipple discharge, for example.

Breast Self-Examination Procedure

Examine yourself once a month, two to three days after the end of menstruation. During menopause, you can choose any day – select one day a month and stick to it consistently.
Stand in front of a mirror and meticulously inspect your breasts.
Observe if any unusual lumps have appeared on your breasts.
Do not overlook colour changes or a different skin texture.
Also, focus on the nipples and their colour, shape, or any discharge.
Before palpation, apply cream or oil to your fingers; the examination will be more comfortable.
Palpate your armpit and note the presence of lumps and irregularities.
Diligently palpate your breasts. Begin with up-and-down movements across the entire breast area.
Then, move your fingers from the centre outwards, also across the entire area.
Finally, check both breasts using circular movements.

Mammogram

Mammography is an X-ray examination of the breasts that can detect changes that are not palpable. Thanks to low radiation, the examination is safe and is a fundamental pillar of an organised screening program for breast cancer diagnosis. This means that the state or healthcare institutions actively invite women for a free examination.

Breast cancer screening is recommended by the European Union authorities and operates in most member states. Although it was recently recommended for women aged from 50 to 69 years, the latest guidelines from the European Commission speak of its extension to the age group 45 to 74 years. Many countries, such as Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Austria, or Poland, already follow these recommendations and invite women for screening from the age of 45.

You should undergo this examination every other year. If the risk of cancer is higher, it may be performed more frequently. Similarly, women over 40 can also undergo it if the risk is higher. ^[16]

Ultrasound Examination

Ultrasound examination is not part of screening. It is used as a supplement to clarify mammography findings or in women with dense breast tissue.

It is also used as a preventive diagnostic examination in younger women who do not yet regularly undergo mammography. If you wish to regularly undergo an ultrasound examination, your doctor may recommend it, or you may request it yourself. It is worthwhile to have an ultrasound if you have a family history of breast cancer, but also for reassurance that everything is fine with your breasts. ^[21]

Can Breast Cancer be Prevented by Lifestyle Changes?

If you want to do everything to avoid this unpleasant diagnosis, it is not enough to examine yourself once a month, nor to visit a doctor once every two years. It is important to work on it all year round. Although you cannot influence everything, you have powerful tools at your disposal that can reduce the risk of this disease, mitigate or delay it. What are they? ^[15]

1. Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

Maintaining a healthy body weight is among the most important preventive measures. Why is this so important? As we have already mentioned, excess body fat, especially after menopause, increases the level of the hormone estrogen, which is associated with tumour growth.

Of course, there is no universal recipe for maintaining a healthy weight. It is important to find a combination of diet and exercise that is sustainable for you and that you can adhere to long-term. You can find more information on how to do this in our other articles. ^[5,15]

2. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity also holds an honourable place in breast cancer prevention. The American Cancer Society recommends dedicating at least 150 – 300 minutes per week to moderate-intensity activity or 75 – 150 minutes to vigorous activity.

Activities of moderate intensity include anything that makes you slightly breathless, such as brisk walking.
During vigorous activity, your heart rate will significantly increase, you will become breathless and sweat. ^[15]

However, these recommendations are practically the necessary minimum. You will do well if you get even more physical activity. Make sure you move in some way every day. The basis is ordinary walking, and add sports activities according to what you enjoy. Ideally, combine strength training with aerobic exercise (brisk walking, running, cycling, swimming, etc.).

3. Breastfeed your Child

Most of you know that breastfeeding is beneficial for the child, but did you know that it also has a positive impact on your health? Breastfeeding can help reduce the risk of breast cancer, especially if you breastfeed longer. During breastfeeding, the total number of menstrual cycles decreases, thereby minimising exposure to estrogen, which can promote the growth of cancer cells. Scientists even believe that cells in breast tissue change during breastfeeding and become more resistant to cancer development. ^[15,20]

4. Limit Alcohol and Smoking

In this case, too, it holds true that the safest amount of alcohol is a zero dose. Therefore, for cancer prevention, it is ideal to limit alcohol completely. ^[15]

The same rule applies to smoking. The risk increases with the duration of smoking and the number of cigarettes smoked. Therefore, the best prevention is not to start smoking, and if you already smoke, to quit as soon as possible. These rules also apply to passive smoking (inhaling smoke from another smoker’s cigarette), which is also important to avoid.

5. Eat Right

Scientists are intensively researching the relationship between nutrition and breast cancer. Although we cannot say with certainty that any specific food would act as protection against cancer, we know that there are connections between the risk of disease and what we eat. Scientists agree that a healthy and balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and fibre, is crucial for maintaining overall health. This is an important pillar in building a strong and resilient body that can help reduce the risk of developing the disease. ^[15]

Instead of focusing on miraculous superfoods, focus on a long-term lifestyle change. You can find more about how to properly set up your diet in our other articles.

How Can You Get Involved?

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than just a symbol. It gives each of us an opportunity to lend a hand and help spread awareness further. Prevention is in our hands, but equally important is support and solidarity towards others. How can you yourselves support Pink October?

Spread Awareness

One of the most effective ways to help is by spreading information. Talk about prevention, self-examination, and the importance of preventive check-ups with your friends, mothers, sisters, and colleagues. Share relevant and verified articles on social media. Thanks to you, this important message will reach a larger number of people.

Wear a Pink Ribbon

By wearing a pink ribbon, you symbolically show that you care about the health of others. It is a simple yet powerful expression of solidarity with those fighting cancer, and a reminder for others to take care of their health.

Participate in Events

In October, many charity events are held worldwide, such as runs, walks, or lectures. Find out if such an event is organised in your area and support a good cause with your participation.

Financial Support

If you have the opportunity, you can contribute a financial sum to research and assistance for patients. Financial support enables verified organisations to provide psychological and practical assistance, as well as to invest in further research leading to new treatment methods.

Be a Support

If you know someone in your vicinity who is fighting breast cancer, offer them help. Whether it’s a ride to an examination, cooking a meal, or just a hearing out their problems patiently, your support can have a huge impact on the physical and psychological well-being of the ill person.

What Should You Take Away from This?

After reading this article, you might get the impression that breast cancer lurks around every corner. Although you cannot influence risk factors such as genetics, age, or gender, you have powerful prevention tools in your hands. Regular self-examination and screening are your best weapons. Do not forget that early detection is key to successful treatment.

Equally important are lifestyle changes. Every step you take towards a healthier diet, regular exercise, and limiting alcohol or smoking counts. And if you know someone who is fighting the disease, be their support. Each of us can contribute to spreading awareness. Let’s collectively show that Pink October is more than just a symbol. It is a reminder that our health is the most valuable thing we have.

You can start spreading awareness right now by sharing this article with your friends and acquaintances.

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