WBC Joins the Fight Against Breast Cancer This October
Inspiration from Erika Ortiz
During the traditional “Martes de Café” WBC press conference at the Federal Protection Service in Mexico City, Erika Ortiz’s words inspired and educated us. She reminded us that resilience and courage are our greatest weapons against adversity. Breast cancer is not a sentence, she said—if detected early, we can ring the bell of victory.
A Global Message of Hope
This month, the WBC and the IOC have joined forces to raise awareness about breast cancer. Dressed in pink, the WBC’s goal is clear: to increase awareness during October, a month globally dedicated to the fight against breast cancer.
The Alarming Growth of Breast Cancer
Erika Ortiz, general director of the International Cancer Center Foundation, emphasized that breast cancer has grown alarmingly in recent years. Tragically, many women between the ages of 20 and 55 lose their battle because the cancer is often detected too late. Fear and ignorance remain our worst enemies, leading to delays in diagnosis. Yet, it’s vital to remember that 95% of cases detected early are curable.
Breast Cancer Does Not Discriminate
Breast cancer doesn’t respect race, age, or social status. In Mexico alone, more than 20 women die each day due to this disease. Erika also highlighted that breast cancer is the most common cancer in women globally, and although it’s less common, men can also be affected.
The Importance of Self-Examination
Christiane Manzur, director of WBC Cares Mexico, emphasized the importance of early detection. She encouraged women to start self-examinations at the age of 20, as knowing the normal structure of their breasts helps identify any abnormalities early. Early detection is the cornerstone of successful treatment.
WBC’s Commitment to the Cause
Since 2013, the WBC has actively participated in Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The boxing family wears the symbolic pink ribbon during October fights, with ring officials donning pink shirts. The WBC, in collaboration with Cleto Reyes, even released a special edition of pink boxing gloves, used in world title fights.
Spreading the Message Globally
Over the years, the WBC has extended its efforts to reach more women around the world. Press conferences featuring WBC champions as ambassadors have helped promote the importance of early detection. This October, as always, the WBC is fully committed to raising awareness and supporting the global fight against breast cancer. Together, we fight.