Pink October in the workplace and prevention: how to take action?

Every October, France and many other countries wear pink to remind us of a reality that concerns us all. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women.

Behind the symbolic color of Pink October is an essential message: prevention and screening save lives.

As a broker specialized in social protection, we are convinced that health must not only be protected, but also preserved. That's why we are committed, with our partners, to actively supporting this campaign and proposing concrete actions to accompany employees and companies.

Screening, a simple gesture that changes everything

In 2023, over 61,000 new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in France. Yet when detected early, breast cancer can be cured in 9 out of 10 cases. The key is screening.

Between the ages of 50 and 74, every woman is invited to have a mammogram every two years, with 100% of the cost reimbursed by Social Security. But vigilance shouldn't stop at this age: family history, symptoms or simple doubts should encourage you to consult your doctor.

Even today, some women still do not undergo screening, often because of lack of information, inaccessibility or even fear. This is where local, in-company initiatives come into their own:

• Awareness-raising workshops
• Mobile units
• Information campaigns

Every gesture counts in breaking down barriers.

When insurance and prevention go hand in hand

We often associate health insurance - mutual or complementary health insurance - with financial protection against illness.

But its role goes far beyond the reimbursement of medical expenses. An increasing number of contracts now include preventive measures, health check-ups and psychological support.

The challenge for the insurance industry is to promote this preventive dimension, in conjunction with companies and healthcare partners. Promoting health in the workplace also means developing a genuine culture of prevention.

Concrete actions for Pink October

With our partners, we're developing a number of initiatives to bring Pink October to life in the workplace. Some are simple to set up, others more ambitious, but all have the same objective: to raise awareness and encourage screening. These include

• Webinars and conferences led by healthcare professionals to inform and answer questions.
• Practical workshops, such as self-palpation, to help you get to know your body better.
• In-company screening campaigns, with the presence of healthcare professionals or mobile units.
• Awareness-raising kits (posters, flyers, videos, internal newsletters) to relay information to everyone.
• Group events such as solidarity walks and internal challenges....

These actions, adapted to the size and culture of each company, help transform the month of October into a genuine shared prevention initiative.

The company, a key player in public health during Pink October

Companies' involvement in this month is not just a symbolic gesture. It has a concrete impact on employees' health. Encouraging screening, facilitating access to information and offering a forum for discussion and prevention help to reduce absenteeism, boost confidence and improve quality of life at work (QWL).

This commitment is fully in line with a corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach, which is increasingly moving towards Green HR. By taking part in the Pink October campaign, employers are sending out a strong message: "the health of their employees is a priority".

It's a choice that benefits everyone individually, but also the organization as a whole.

Acting together now

Pink October is a highlight of the year, but prevention doesn't stop in October. It has to be anchored in our daily lives, in our habits and reflexes. Every company can become a relay for this prevention, and we're here to support them.

The aim is simple: to make information accessible, encourage action and, ultimately, help save lives.

And from November onwards, it's Movember, a month dedicated to men's health, but also and above all an opportunity to continue this collective momentum by raising awareness of prostate and testicular cancer and men's mental health.

FAQ about Pink October

What is Pink October?

October Rose is an annual awareness-raising campaign organized in France since 1994. Its aim is to inform the general public about breast cancer, promote screening and support research.

What is the purpose of Pink October?

Its main aim is to highlight the importance of screening, which enables the disease to be detected at an early stage and increases the chances of a cure. It is also a key fund-raising event for research and patient associations.

Are men affected by breast cancer?

Yes, even if breast cancer is still predominantly a woman's disease, around 1% of cases involve men. Awareness and vigilance are therefore just as important for them, especially if there is a family history.

Is screening covered by insurance?

Under the national program, mammography is covered at 100% for women aged 50 to 74, every two years. Depending on the insurance contract, additional examinations or specific support may also be covered.

How can a company get involved in Pink October?

The possibilities are numerous:

• Organization of workshops,
• Setting up screening programs,
• Distribution of awareness-raising kits,
• Internal communication,
• Group events...

Each company can adapt its action to its own culture and resources.