As October arrives many think of fall with colors of yellow, red, and orange. But the most important color of October is pink; Breast Cancer Awareness Month is here.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual health campaign run by major breast cancer charities to increase awareness of the disease as well as raise funds for research regarding the cause of breast cancer, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and possibly a cure.

There are several options for anyone to participate in this month. Participating is as easy as sharing educational information on social media, being aware of the symptoms of breast cancer, donating, or hosting fundraisers.

“My friend hosts a three day walk in my honor, that donates 1.7 million dollars to breast cancer awareness, and I also partake in the event,” Jean Maracantonio said.

Jean is a breast cancer survivor who believes in breast cancer awareness and participates in the month herself.

Raising awareness of breast cancer is a really important part of the effort each October. Twelve percent of women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and about 246,660 new cases will occur in women in 2016 alone. This cancer can be beaten if detected early-on and if the right course of treatment is used. This is why raising awareness is so important and why donations are needed for research.

“I really do believe that this month raises a lot of money and this money truly goes towards scientific research for a cure. There has been progress,” Maracantonio said.

Many fundraisers donate a large percentage to help find a cure. However not everything that has a breast cancer logo can be trusted because some organizations only donate a small percentage of what is raised, or they don’t donate at all.

October brings several people together to dress up in pink and support a good cause. Make sure to show support and wear pink this month!