Pink ribbons are popping up everywhere, the Eiffel Tower has changed color, awareness messages line every street corner... This October carries a special meaning and mission. For more than 30 years in France, a major awareness and prevention campaign is launched each autumn to fight breast cancer. Its name? Pink October.
This nationwide mobilization (also seen in many countries such as Brazil, Japan, Canada, the United States, Argentina, Austria, Korea...) aims to raise funds for medical research against cancer, but also to raise awareness among women about the disease: after all, breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women, with around 60,000 new cases per year. It’s worth noting that while women are most affected, men can also develop this disease.
It is therefore important to fight against this disease, but also to support those who suffer from it, as well as their loved ones. To this end, charities, caregivers, researchers and institutions are joining forces to draw the general public's attention to this disease.
Breast cancer claims more than 12,700 lives per year (in metropolitan France, according to the 2023 figures from the National Cancer Institute). However, the disease is also very well managed: when detected early, through screening programs conducted year-round in France, nearly 90% of patients are declared cured after five years. Women aged 50 to 74 benefit from free screening campaigns, so it’s worth taking advantage of them.
This major prevention campaign saves lives. Launched in France in 1994, Pink October runs from October 1 to 31 every year.
The campaign is symbolized by a pink ribbon, a sign used all over the world. Originating in the United States, the ribbon represents women's fight against breast cancer. It was chosen as a sign of support and expression, and its color embodies " feminine, soft, joyful and evocative of good health, everything that cancer is not ", according to the Breast Cancer Action association.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026: Paris unveils a slate of activities to raise awareness of breast cancer
Paris goes pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month! All month long, from October 1 to 31, 2026, events are taking place to raise awareness about breast cancer. Talks, sports events, and screenings—here’s a sampling of what’s in store. Outings for a good cause! [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
From October 1, 2026 to October 31, 2026
Official website
www.cancerdusein.org
Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026: Paris unveils a slate of activities to raise awareness of breast cancer
