Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Canadian women, touching nearly every family in some way. While awareness has grown, there are still communities where the risk is even greater due to later diagnoses and less access to early screening.

Every year in Canada, about 30,500 women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and roughly 5,500 die from it (Canadian Cancer Society). That means 84 women hear the words “you have breast cancer” every single day, and about 15 women die daily from this disease.

The difference between life and loss often comes down to when the cancer is found. 1 in 8 Canadian women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, but with early detection, survival rates improve dramatically. Screening, regular mammograms, and being familiar with changes in your body all play a part in saving lives.

While breast cancer impacts all women, research shows First Nations women are often diagnosed at later stages compared to non-First Nations women.

• In Ontario, only 34% of First Nations women were diagnosed at Stage I (when tumours are smaller and treatment outcomes are better), compared to 44% of non-First Nations women.

• Historically, breast cancer incidence was lower in First Nations women, but rates have been steadily rising, now approaching those of non-Indigenous women in some regions (Statistics Canada).

This disparity highlights an urgent need for increased awareness, culturally sensitive education, and accessible screening in Indigenous communities.

How You Can Make a Difference in Your Community

Awareness begins with action — and action starts with each of us. Here are a few meaningful ways to spread awareness this October:

• Start the conversation: Share facts about early detection with friends, family, and colleagues.
• Encourage screening: Remind the women in your life to schedule mammograms and practice self-checks.
• Organize a community event: Host an awareness day at your workplace, school, or local community centre.
• Wear and share pink: Small tokens, like pink ribbons, tote bags, or pens, can spark conversations and show visible support.
• Support organizations: Groups like the Canadian Cancer Society and local Indigenous health initiatives provide vital resources and outreach.
  

Show Support Through Action

At Loxiia Imprint, we’ve created a Pink Awareness Collection — useful, everyday items like pens, tote bags, tumblers, and gloves printed with motivational messages. These items are more than products: they’re conversation starters.

A portion of proceeds goes toward supporting awareness initiatives, helping spread the message that early detection saves lives.

This October, let’s do more than wear pink. Let’s speak up, share the facts, and support the women and families most affected. Together, we can build a future where no woman fears breast cancer — and where every woman, including those in First Nations communities, have the chance for early detection and better outcomes.