October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

This is a time to raise awareness, honor those affected by breast cancer, and reaffirm our global commitment to equitable healthcare and improved survival rates for everyone. This year’s theme is: Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters.

Why this theme?

Every breast cancer diagnosis carries its own weight. Each diagnosis tells a story filled with courage, resilience, and hope. This theme serves as a reminder that breast cancer impacts women and their families in various ways worldwide, and every journey deserves compassion and support. It emphasizes the diversity of experiences and the urgent need for timely and empathetic care, regardless of where one lives or their economic status.

The global challenge

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women globally. In 2022, around 2.3 million women received a diagnosis, and about 670,000 lost their lives to the disease. These figures represent mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends who deserve dignity and hope. In high-income countries, the 5-year survival rate exceeds 90%, but it’s only 66% in India and 40% in South Africa. This inequality is often due to limited access to early detection and effective treatment. If current trends persist, the incidence and mortality rates could rise by 40% by 2050, highlighting the need for urgent action. Where a woman lives shouldn’t determine her chance of survival.

Since its launch in 2021, the WHO Global Breast Cancer Initiative has been collaborating with countries to lower breast cancer mortality by enhancing health systems.

The GBCI’s strategic approach: The 60–60–80 targets

We have the means to prevent, diagnose, and treat breast cancer. The GBCI encourages countries to adopt evidence-based strategies focusing on three key areas:

• Pillar One: Health promotion and early detection Encourage individuals and communities to recognize symptoms early. Target: 60% of invasive breast cancers diagnosed at stage I or II.
• Pillar Two: Timely diagnosis Ensure that diagnostic services are accessible and efficient. Target: patients receive a diagnosis within 60 days of their first visit.
• Pillar Three: Comprehensive treatment Provide equitable and uninterrupted care for all patients. Target: 80% of patients complete their recommended treatment.

The goal of Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2025

The main goals include raising awareness and encouraging early detection of breast cancer, improving access to care, and honoring those with lived experiences.

Objectives

1. To stress the importance of health promotion, early detection, and timely diagnosis linked to comprehensive treatment.
2. To build partnerships by involving stakeholders to enhance our impact.
3. To ensure equitable access to quality care through the adoption of GBCI targets.

October 2025 highlights

• Global storytelling campaign: We invite everyone—policymakers, health workers, survivors, and advocates—to share videos, posts, or podcasts that tell your experience during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
• Advocacy toolkit: Use social media to share your journey with #EveryStoryIsUnique to help amplify our message.
• The Third Global Breast Cancer Initiative Informal Partners Meeting: On October 8, we will gather partners to discuss key priorities and release a training manual aimed at strengthening knowledge and skills for GBCI implementation. If your institution is interested, fill out this form for more details.
• Local and regional events: Expect screenings, outreach, webinars, shows, and advocacy activities throughout the month.

How to get involved

Become an advocate for breast cancer awareness and equitable access to care:

• Share your story or amplify others’ to inspire and inform.
• Organize awareness events within your community or workplace.
• Advocate for policies that enhance access to breast cancer services.
• Support local organizations through donations or volunteering.

This October, let’s amplify voices, share stories, and drive change. Together, we can build a world where every life affected by breast cancer is empowered and receives the care they need, no matter where they are.