Breast Cancer Ribbon

A brief history of the breast cancer ribbon

The very first breast cancer ribbon was used in the fall of 1991; it was called the pink ribbon and associated with all breast cancer awareness. A Pink breast cancer ribbon was handed out to the participants in the New York City race for breast cancer survivors.

The pink breast cancer ribbon was officially adopted in 1992 and was derived by the popular red ribbon for AIDS at the time. A pink and blue breast cancer ribbon is sometimes used to symbolize breast cancer in men. A blue and pink breast cancer ribbon was created in 1996 by Nancy Nick for the John W. Foundation’s breast cancer awareness drive called “Men Get Breast Cancer Too!”

A pink breast cancer ribbon is at the forefront of the breast cancer awareness movement. A Pink breast cancer ribbon is sometimes sold as a fundraiser similar to the poppy on Remembrance Day to raise money for a great cause. A breast cancer ribbon of any colour is also worn to honour those with breast cancer.

The pink breast ribbon has always been associated with generosity, faith in scientific progress, and a "can-do" attitude.  The breast cancer ribbon stands as a paramount symbol for the fight against breast cancer, raising awareness and giving hope.