National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) was founded in 1985 by the American Cancer Society and Imperial Chemical Industries (now AstraZeneca, anti-breast cancer drug manufacturer). The organization was formed to promote mammography and early detection of breast cancer.

Today, breast cancer awareness campaigns are internationally coordinated by many prominent breast cancer charities each October to increase awareness and to raise research funds. Funds are much needed for research regarding cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure of the disease.

During the month of October, you can participate in various events organized by foundations such as the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Susan G. Komen Foundation, and the American Cancer Society who are dedicated to fighting breast cancer and increasing awareness of this disease that affects so many Long Island women. These organizations help women with early detection programs; programs to understand treatment options; funding for prevention, research and treatment; providing education, support and an inspiration of hope.

You can help support breast cancer awareness by making a financial donation to one of many charities, creating your own fundraising event, becoming a volunteer or sponsor, or participating in an existing campaign such as the Pink Hair For Hope. Pink Hair For Hope’s mission is to raise awareness and donate funds to already existing breast cancer foundations. Through October, Pink Hair For Hope provides pink hair extensions to beauty salons for clients to have put in for a $10 donation. The salon stylists donate their time while the foundation donates their net proceeds. Participating is a fun way to get girls involved in promoting awareness at an early age, while you make a donation to a great cause. So far, the Pink Hair For Hope campaign has raised almost two million dollars to help fight breast cancer.

Show how much you care – get involved today!