World Cancer Day: Different Types of Cancer Awareness Ribbons, History, Colours, Meaning and Significance

World Cancer Day: World Cancer Day is celebrated every year on 4th February to raise awareness about the prevention, detection, and treatment of various types of cancer. While common cancers include lung cancer, breast cancer, and skin cancer, there are over 100 subtypes of cancers that are still not known to many. To highlight the need to educate about each type, some subtypes have their own awareness months and ribbons associated with them. Each one has a symbolic color and meaning.  

Cancer Ribbons and Their Months

There are around 43 cancer ribbons and 27 cancer awareness months. This World Cancer Day, educate yourself about these cancer awareness ribbons listed below with their symbolic meaning and significance.

Breast Cancer (Pink Ribbon)

The pink ribbon is associated with breast cancer, the world’s second most common cancer. This ribbon colour symbolizes unity, support, and hope for a cure. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Prostate Cancer (Light Blue Ribbon)

Prostate cancer primarily affects men and is the most frequent cancer in men. September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and efforts are made to stimulate discussions about early detection, treatment options, and patient and survivor support.

Leukaemia (Orange Ribbon)

The orange ribbon represents leukemia and kidney cancer, two types of cancers that affect the blood and bone marrow. September is leukemia awareness month.

Childhood Cancer (Gold Ribbon)

Childhood cancer affects children and is symbolized by a golden ribbon. September is designated as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, emphasizing the unique issues that young children experience and the need for specialized research. 

Brain Cancer (Grey Ribbon)

The grey ribbon represents brain cancer, tumors, and glioblastoma. May is Brain Cancer Awareness Month, which raises awareness of patients' concerns while also promoting research for better therapies and quality of life.

Pancreatic Cancer (Purple Ribbon)

The purple ribbon denotes pancreatic cancer, which has one of the worst mortality rates of any malignancy. Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month occurs in November.

Ovarian Cancer (Teal Ribbon)

The teal ribbon is connected with a variety of cancers, including ovarian, cervical, and uterine cancer. September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, while January is dedicated to cervical health awareness. September is also recognized as Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month.

Liver Cancer (Emerald Green Ribbon)

The emerald ribbon symbolizes liver, lymphoma, and gallbladder cancers. Liver Cancer Awareness Month takes place in October and is dedicated to raising awareness about the disease, assisting patients, and funding research.

Colon Cancer (Dark Blue)

The dark blue ribbon is well-known as a symbol of colon cancer awareness campaigns. This ribbon symbolizes support, solidarity, and activism for those impacted by this type of cancer, including patients, survivors, and their loved ones. March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month. 

Lung Cancer (Pearl or White Ribbon)

A pearl or white ribbon symbolizes hope for patients suffering from lung cancer. Lung Cancer Awareness Month takes place in November.

Bone Cancer (Yellow Ribbon)

A yellow ribbon denotes sarcoma or bone cancer. There are different types of bone cancer. Sarcoma can damage either the bones or the body’s connective tissues, such as cartilage or myofascial tissue. July is Sarcoma Awareness Month.