Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP) is joining the Pink October initiative, with the aim of raising awareness among its academic community about the prevention and early diagnosis of breast cancer. As part of a nationwide campaign, UCP is carrying out various activities to raise awareness and funds for the Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro, starting on 18th October.
During the month of October, UCP is providing information on its four campi about the risk factors associated with breast cancer and recommendations for the prevention and early diagnosis of this disease. At the same time, it is organizing a nationwide fundraiser, in which the community can participate by donating to the identified boxes located in bars, cafeterias, bookshops and stationery stores.
Created in the United States in the 1990s, the "Pink October" movement aims to inspire change and mobilize society in the fight against breast cancer. For this reason, the color pink is used to raise awareness of prevention and early diagnosis, support research in this area and pay tribute to women with breast cancer.
Breast cancer is a major public health problem and the most prevalent cancer in Portugal and worldwide. Although most cases occur in women over 50, around 1 in 100 affect men. Several risk factors, such as age, family history, genetic alterations, excess weight, smoking, alcohol consumption, early onset of menstruation and late menopause, are associated with the development of breast cancer. Early diagnosis is crucial, as it offers a cure rate of over 90% and improves quality of life.