In Italy 55 thousand diagnoses the year of breast cancer. With the incomplete pink ribbon, Airc relands to research and invites prevention and screening.
Every year in Italy over 55,000 women receive a diagnosis of breast cancer, the most common neoplasm in the female population. Today, thanks to the progress of research, survival 5 years after diagnosis has reached 88%, but there remains a 12% of patients for whom there are still no effective therapies, in particular in the most aggressive forms such as negative triple or metastatic cancer.
To underline the urgency of this challenge, from 1 October the Rosa Airc ribbon campaign returns, which illuminates hundreds of Italian monuments in pink with the support of Anci. The symbol is the incomplete pink ribbon, an image of a goal still to be achieved: care for all.
Research and progress
In 2025 AIRC Foundation will invest 14 million euros in projects and scholarships dedicated to breast cancer. In 60 years the research has revolutionized the treatments: from the first monoclonal antibody (Trasuzumab, 1998) to targeted therapies, up to immunotherapy and immuno-dark antibodies that have improved protocols for advanced forms.
Early prevention and diagnosis
A tumor identified in the initial phase is much more curable. Yet, according to the 2023-24 data of the Istituto Superiore di Sanità, only 75%of women between 50 and 69 years of age participates in mammographic screening, with strong territorial differences (north 86%, south 62%).
The National Health Service offers free mammography in the expected age groups, but it is important not to ignore the alarm bells (nodules, changes of the nipple, secretions).
Lifestyle also has a weight: doing physical activity reduces the risk of up to 20%, while alcohol, smoke and unbalanced diet increase it.
Events and fundraising
The campaign is also an opportunity to participate. From 1 October you can support the research with the pink incomplete ribbon pin, available with minimum donation in thousands of pharmacies, in the participating stores and in the AIRC online shop together with dedicated products (including a thermal bottle, a leather ribbon and eco-friendly cosmetics kit).
The events “move for AIRC”, between walks, marathons and days in the gym, and the initiative “The beauty that counts”, with hairdressers and beauticians who collect funds and offer symbolic support for women on treatment are back in the area.
Partners and companies involved
In addition to the millions of supporters and volunteers, Airc can count on the support of companies such as The Estée Lauder Companies Italia (Main Partner), Vitasnella, Coccinelle, Chiquita, Aldi, Primark, as well as banks, pharmacies and gardening associations that finance scholarships and research projects.
Where to inquire
All information on screening, local initiatives and support methods are available on ribbona.it
