Pink is the color representing breast cancer.

When breast cancer strikes, it affects not only the woman diagnosed, but also her family members, friends and co-workers.

Real Men Wear Pink gives men a concrete way to show their support for those facing breast cancer. It also gives them a way to take an active role in reminding and encouraging the women they know to make — and keep —their annual mammography appointment (or as recommended by her doctor).

Why is an annual mammogram so important?

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer (other than skin cancer) and second cancer killer in women. And, while it is much rarer in men, men are diagnosed with breast cancer. The best way for a man to protect himself is to be aware of how his breasts normally look and feel and to discuss any changes with his doctor.

This year in Illinois, approximately 9,320 women (60 men) will be diagnosed with breast cancer and approximately 1,880 women (10 men) will die of breast cancer.

Studies show that early detection, when followed by appropriate treatment, saves lives and increases treatment options. If caught early, the survival rate is 98 percent. Real Men Wear Pink emphasizes the importance of knowledge and action – and that being nudged, reminded, supported and encouraged every step of the way by someone who cares can make a life-saving difference.

African-American women in Illinois have the highest death rate of breast cancer than any other racial or ethnic group.

Is Real Men Wear Pink a fundraiser?

Not really. The main focus of Real Men Wear Pink is breast cancer awareness. Any funds raised through Real Men Wear Pink benefit the American Cancer Society's Patient Resource Center. The Center provides resources, such as rides to and from treatment, the Reach to Recovery breast cancer support network, free wigs and hats and the Look Good...Feel Better® program to help women cope with the side effects of treatment.

Where did the idea of Real Men Wear Pink idea originate?

Real Men Wear Pink was launched in 2006 by St. John’s Hospital and the American Cancer Society. Now in its fifth year, Real Men Wear Pink has men throughout our community proudly wearing pink every Friday in October. Real men in Decatur, Effingham and Belleville are participating, too, thanks to our partnership with our sister hospitals in those communities.