Awareness

When is Breast Cancer Awareness Month?

In brief

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is every October, from 1 to 31 October. In 2026 it runs from Thursday 1 October to Saturday 31 October, and in 2027 from Friday 1 October to Sunday 31 October. It is marked in the UK, the US and many other countries, and the World Health Organization uses it to promote early detection.

By Kaiser Khan, Breast Cancer Charity · Updated

Quick facts

2026 dates
Thursday 1 October to Saturday 31 October 2026
Source: WHO: Global Breast Cancer Initiative, Breast Cancer Awareness Month
2027 dates
Friday 1 October to Sunday 31 October 2027
Source: WHO: Global Breast Cancer Initiative, Breast Cancer Awareness Month
First held
1985, in the United States
Source: US Senate (Senator Grassley): Q&A on National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Symbol
The pink ribbon, launched in 1992
Source: The Estée Lauder Companies: the Breast Cancer Campaign

Key takeaways

When is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026?

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026 runs from Thursday 1 October to Saturday 31 October 2026. In 2027 it runs from Friday 1 October to Sunday 31 October. The World Health Organization describes it as being marked globally every October.

Source: WHO: Global Breast Cancer Initiative, Breast Cancer Awareness Month

When did Breast Cancer Awareness Month start?

In the United States, October was first designated National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in 1985. The pink ribbon followed in 1992, and the month is now marked in the UK and in many other countries.

Sources: US Senate (Senator Grassley): Q&A on National Breast Cancer Awareness Month; The Estée Lauder Companies: the Breast Cancer Campaign

Are there special days during the month?

Many countries and organisations add their own days inside October, such as days focused on secondary (metastatic) breast cancer, on breast cancer in men, or on wearing pink at work and school. Dates and names vary by country and organiser, so check locally before planning around one.

What can I do this October?

  • Check your breasts or chest so you know what is normal for you, and see a GP or doctor about any change.
  • Go for breast screening when you are invited. In England, women aged 50 up to their 71st birthday are invited every 3 years.
  • Hold a pink afternoon tea, a wear-pink day or a sponsored walk.
  • Join Screen One More: give £25 to fund one complete screening for a woman who has never been examined.

Sources: NHS: how to check your breasts or chest; NHS: who breast screening is for; Breast Cancer Charity: how we estimate the cost of a screening

Is it OK to say “Happy Breast Cancer Awareness Month”?

Many people affected by breast cancer would rather not hear “happy”, because the month can bring back difficult memories. “This Breast Cancer Awareness Month…” or a simple reminder to check your breasts is a kinder choice.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Breast Cancer Awareness Month last?
The whole of October: 31 days, from 1 to 31 October.

Source: WHO: Global Breast Cancer Initiative, Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month the same date in every country?
The WHO and most countries, including the UK and the US, mark it in October. Some countries also hold their own national days or weeks at other times of year.

Source: WHO: Global Breast Cancer Initiative, Breast Cancer Awareness Month

What colour is Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
Pink. The pink ribbon, launched in 1992, is the month’s symbol, and many buildings, sports teams and workplaces go pink in October.

Source: The Estée Lauder Companies: the Breast Cancer Campaign

What is Screen One More?
Our October campaign. Pledge at least £25 to fund one complete screening, a clinical breast exam, ultrasound and health education, for a woman in an underserved community who has never been examined.

Source: Breast Cancer Charity: how we estimate the cost of a screening

Sources and references

This page is general information, not medical advice. A GP or doctor can advise on your own situation. Source links do not imply endorsement by the NHS or another organisation. See our editorial policy.