Pink October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The reality in numbers
Since 1985, October has been recognized worldwide as Breast Cancer Awareness Month – a significant time in the medical calendar dedicated to highlighting the importance of cancer vigilance, prevention, and early detection.
Despite major advancements in oncology, breast cancer remains one of the greatest challenges in modern medicine. It is an insidious disease, often developing without symptoms, making early detection crucial.
The reality in numbers:
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignant tumor among women (25%) and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths (14%).
Around 1.7 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer globally each year, and over 500,000 women die as a result.
In Poland, 80% of cases occur in women over 50, but self-examinations are recommended starting at age 20.
Breast cancer remains one of the greatest public health threats to women in our country.
Doctors are sounding the alarm – prevention saves lives!
Thanks to advancements in diagnostic tools, early detection of cancerous changes allows for effective treatment and significantly increases the chances of full recovery. When detected at stage I, the 5-year survival rate reaches 98–100%. These are not just statistics – these are real chances for life.
The role of tumor markers in prevention
Laboratory tests play a crucial role in breast cancer prevention and treatment, helping doctors assess a patient's condition and make informed therapeutic decisions. Among these, tumor markers – substances found in the blood that may indicate the presence or progression of the disease – are particularly important.
The most commonly used tumor marker in breast cancer is CA 15-3, which helps monitor treatment effectiveness and detect potential recurrence at an early stage. Other valuable markers include CEA, and in certain cases, CA 125, which together give a more comprehensive picture of the patient’s health.
Thanks to modern immunochemical analyzers and dedicated reagents by Cormay Diagnostics, laboratories in Poland and around the world can offer women fast, reliable, and accessible testing. These are real tools supporting both prevention and treatment – because in the fight against breast cancer, time and precision matter.
Regular testing – the foundation of women’s health
Breast cancer prevention must be part of a holistic approach to women's health. In addition to imaging and breast cancer-specific tests, it is vital to regularly check general blood parameters such as:
Lipid profile
Glucose levels
Liver function tests
Creatinine and urea
Complete blood count (CBC)
These tests provide insight into the functioning of the entire body. When performed regularly (at least once a year), they help assess the hematopoietic and immune systems, detect metabolic issues, cardiovascular risks, and reduce the likelihood of developing serious systemic conditions.
Routine biochemical and hematological testing is an act of self-care – offering peace of mind and helping women take charge of their health at every stage of life.
Thanks to our analyzers and reagents, medical facilities in Poland and worldwide can provide comprehensive diagnostics that are accessible to a broad population of women.
What can we do as a medical community?
Encourage women to undergo regular preventive screenings: self-examinations, mammography, and laboratory testing.
Educate patients that early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of complete recovery.
Support access to comprehensive diagnostics – from imaging to laboratory analysis.
Strengthen collaboration between labs, oncologists, gynecologists, and primary care physicians – this is the foundation of effective prevention.
Pink October is more than a symbol – it's a powerful reminder that modern medicine gives us real tools to save lives.
Through a combination of education, public awareness, and advanced diagnostics – including solutions provided by Cormay Diagnostics – we can detect earlier, treat more effectively, and support women better in the fight against breast cancer.
Contact
PZ Cormay S.A.
Ursynów Business Park
303 Pulawska Street
02-785 Warsaw, Poland