European Parliament turns pink to kick off International Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Station Europe in Brussels was illuminated in pink on 30 September to show the European Parliament’s support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The action on the eve of Pink October was designed to draw attention to the importance of breast cancer prevention, early detection and support for all those affected by the disease, including genetic breast cancers.

It was attended by European Parliament vice-presidents Pina Picierno and Antonello Sberna, as well as MEP Nevado del Campo.

“October is the most important month of the year for us,” said Dr Jan Lamote, president of Pink Ribbon Belgium. "Breast cancer is still the most common cancer in Belgian women. A healthy lifestyle and early detection remain very decisive for the avoidance of the disease and the course of treatment when one is affected.”

For 2025, the campaign is focusing on recent research on Belgian’s attitudes towards genetic breast cancer testing.

Although a survey of 1,000 Belgians conducted by IVOX found that at least eight in 10 Belgians are willing to be tested for breast cancer genes as a preventive measure, such tests remain underused. One in two hereditary breast cancers are detected when it’s too late, at the time of diagnosis. 

Every year, buildings across Europe and around the world bathe in a pink glow to mark the start of International Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In Belgium, landmarks in Brussels, Lier, Bruges, Leuven and Kortrijk will all be illuminatde in pink.

Photo: ©Belgaimage