Universidade Católica Portuguesa 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 Portuguese League Against Cancer, starting on October 18.
During the month of October, UCP is offering information at its four Campi on the risk factors associated with breast cancer and recommendations for the prevention and early diagnosis of this disease. At the same time, it is organising a nationwide fundraiser, in which the community can take part by donating to the identified boxes located in bars, canteens, bookshops and stationery stores.
On October 18, the offertory of the Mass of the Holy Spirit, held at the UCP headquarters, will go to the Portuguese League Against Cancer - Southern Regional Centre. On October 30th, the Faculty of Philosophy and Social Sciences of the Braga Campus is preparing a supportive online class on "Full Body Cardio", promoted by Active by Split, open to the entire UCP academic community, in which each participant must use a pink piece of clothing, the color of breast cancer awareness. On November 4, the Católica Medical School Students' Union is organising a charity paddle tournament, the proceeds of which will go to this cause.
Created in the United States in the 1990s, the "Pink October" movement aims to inspire change and mobilise society in the fight against breast cancer. For this reason, the colour 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 per cent and improves quality of life.
