October is fast approaching, and the onslaught of pink ribbons will be found on everything from cereal boxes to home improvement tools. Everything will be pink with the proviso a portion of the proceeds will be donated to breast cancer organizations. You probably have seen this for yourself. This post is about the origin of the pink ribbon we so closely identify with breast cancer awareness.
In 1991 Susan G Komen distributed pink ribbons to race participants at its signature race in NYC. It is said it was modeled after the famous use of the red ribbon for HIV/AIDS that was highly recognized worldwide as a symbol of supporting a cure for the disease.
This was followed up in 1993 when cosmetic giant Estee Lauder Company founded the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and they solidified the pink ribbon as the symbol of breast cancer awareness.
In 1995 was founded originally as a joint partnership between the American Cancer Society and Imperial Chemical Industry. At that time the latter was the pharmaceutical division of Astra Zeneca. The original purpose was twofold:
- Promote mammography as a tool for early detection
- Educate the public that mammography’s were an effective and safe test
All these marketing campaigned merged and melded to what we know today as the pink ribbon as the symbol for breast cancer. It also made this country stop speaking of breast cancer in hushed tones marked with shame. It put it in the everyday world of Americans and more importantly moved the needle forward with educating women on breast health, symptoms, and treatment.
No matter the road I for one that breast health and awareness have been normalized and information is accessible. Admittedly we have a way to go in terms of diversity, equity, and inclusion but we are better than we used to be, and the future looks brighter. This blog is living proof of that. Remember early detection saves lives!
Melanin & Pink Ribbons 
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