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October is known as Pink Month. The name refers to an international campaign aimed at raising public awareness about breast cancer, promoting preventive screenings, and supporting those affected by the disease. It originates from the campaign’s symbol—the pink ribbon—and October was chosen as the month dedicated to fighting this type of cancer.

Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor among women. It accounts for nearly 24% of all cancer cases and is responsible for almost 15% of all female cancer-related deaths, according to the website pacjent.gov.pl

Especially in October, it’s important to remember the value of regular check-ups, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, physical activity, and breast self-examination. Self-exams should be done regularly, always between 3 to 5 days after menstruation. The website pacjent.gov.pl offers a tutorial on how to perform a self-exam. It’s worth checking out the simple instructions.

Women’s health is one of our key priorities. But women’s health goes beyond breast cancer. At the Institute for Social Development, we published the White Paper—a unique compilation of expert voices addressing the healthcare system and outlining the most important directions for comprehensive and holistic patient care.

The White Paper is available at the following link.

Key issues related to women’s health include:

• Strengthening women’s reproductive rights—women should have the autonomy to make decisions about their health and bodies
• Increasing access to healthcare services for women—including modern treatments such as in vitro fertilization and removing barriers to emergency contraception
• Expanding preventive programs and screenings for women’s diseases—especially through awareness campaigns about lesser-known risks like HPV
• Sexual and health education—which plays a crucial role in preventing sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies

Women should be aware of their rights. Access to diagnostics and treatment must be continuously improved, regardless of place of residence or life circumstances. Being aware means more than knowing the law or medical options—it’s also about daily choices: healthy eating, physical activity, rest, and attentiveness to the signals your body sends. A woman who knows herself and where to seek help can effectively care for her health every day.

Together, we can build a society where every woman’s health is a priority.