01-10-2012: Nelson Mandela Bridge goes pink for breast cancer drive
The City of Johannesburg and Estee Lauder Companies will turn the Nelson Mandela Bridge bright pink for the next week to raise awareness of breast cancer.
The Nelson Mandela Bridge will be lit pink on 02 October 2012 from 19h00 until 08 October 2012 to spread the lifesaving message on Breast Cancer and early
detection.
Breast cancer month is commemorated worldwide during the month of October annually. The Mandela Bridge will be lit up pink for the first time since it was
built for people living with breast cancer. In 2000, Evelyn Lauder launched the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign’s Global Landmarks Illumination Initiative.
This initiative involves illuminating notable landmarks in glowing pink lights all over the world to call attention to breast health and early detection of
breast cancer. This year marks the 20th Anniversary of the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign and highlights the dedication, life and legacy of Evelyn Lauder.
Cllr Nonceba Molwele, the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Health and Social Development in the City of Johannesburg says, “We are proud to announce that
for the first time Estee Lauder Companies South Africa together with the City of Johannesburg will be illuminating one of the most notable landmarks in
Africa - The Nelson Mandela Bridge on the 2nd October 2012”.
Breast cancer is cancer arising in breast tissue. Cancer is simply a group of abnormal cells that have abnormal growth patterns. Although breast cancer is
primarily a disease of women, about 1% of breast cancers occur in men. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women and is the second leading
cause of death by cancer in women, following only lung cancer.
Many women who develop breast cancer have no risk factors other than age. Gender is the biggest risk because breast cancer occurs mostly in women. Age is
another critical factor. Breast cancer may occur at any age, though the risk of breast cancer increases with age.
“The earlier breast cancer is detected and diagnosed, the better your chances of beating it. Breast self-exam should be part of your monthly health care
routine. If you're over 40 or at a high risk for the disease, you should also have an annual mammogram and physical exam by a doctor or primary health care
worker”, said Molwele.
The City of Johannesburg Health and Social Development Department will create awareness about breast cancer during October to all its health facilities
within the City.
ENDS
For more information contact:
Nkosinathi Nkabinde
Communication Specialist
City of Johannesburg Group Communication & Tourism Department
Tel: (011) 407 - 6477
Cell: 083 408 7787
E-mail: nkosinathin@joburg.org.za" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:12pt"> nkosinathin@joburg.org.za
