Heidelberg castles in pink: Together against breast cancer in October!

Heidelberg castles in pink: Together against breast cancer in October!

In October, many cities light up in pink, and there's a good reason for that: it's Pinktober, Global Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month not only raises awareness about the most common cancer among women, but also sends a strong signal of solidarity. For example, the Heidelberg Castle and the Starkenburg in Heppenheim light up in bright pink to draw attention to this disease. Every year, around 70,000 women in Germany are diagnosed with breast cancer, which happens to around one in eight women in the course of their lives. The importance of early detection, for example through mammography screening, cannot be emphasized enough, as it improves the chances of recovery and significantly reduces the risk of death, reports the Heidelberg University Hospital.

The motivation for the Pinktober campaign is varied: it aims to raise awareness of breast cancer and support the need for screening. The initiative, which has its origins in the USA and goes back to the American Cancer Society in 1985, has now achieved worldwide importance. In Germany, too, the numbers are alarming: around 69,000 women and 700 men suffer from this disease every year Marien Hospital Düsseldorf explained.

Promotions and events

As part of Pinktober, the Heidelberg University Hospital, the National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) and the Bergstrasse Breast Center (BZB) have organized numerous events. From a joint kick-off where a human pink ribbon was recreated to a home game of the MLP Academics Heidelberg where special jerseys are worn, there is something for everyone. On October 25, the “Strong Voices for Strong Women” event will be a highlight of the activities, followed by an exhibition entitled “Let Your Scars Shine” and a school painting competition. Information events in Heidelberg and Heppenheim are also on the program, which provide important educational work.

The breast center also offers extensive care for patients, including psychosocial care and collaboration between interdisciplinary teams. Donations are collected to support projects that include therapeutic groups for children or educational videos for affected families. The proceeds will flow into a specially set up donation account at Heidelberg University Hospital, which also received the patronage of Queen Silvia of Sweden.

Clear up important information and myths

Despite all the advances, there are many myths about breast cancer that need to be dispelled. It is important to know that wearing underwire bras does not increase the risk and that being overweight and smoking are actual risk factors. Breastfeeding can also reduce the risk. A breast cancer diagnosis does not mean the end; The chances of survival are high and there are numerous ways to reduce risk. The self-help groups and counseling services offered by the facilities make it clear that no one is alone with this diagnosis.

Pinktober shows us how important solidarity and education are in the fight against breast cancer. Whether through information events, fundraisers or simply wearing the color pink, everyone can do their part to raise awareness of breast cancer and support women affected by it.