Every October, the world turns pink. Pink ribbons, pink buildings and pink profile pictures mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to remember those we have lost, celebrate those living with and beyond breast cancer, and, most importantly, help more people find it early.

In Kenya, the need is clear. Breast cancer is now the country’s most common cancer: an estimated 5,800 Kenyans are diagnosed every year, and about 2,900 die from it. About 7 in 10 breast cancers here are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when treatment is harder and outcomes are poorer.

At the KAVI Institute of Clinical Research (KAVI-ICR), University of Nairobi, we believe that changing this picture starts with awareness, and awareness starts with conversation. This Pinktober, we are joining partners across Kenya to help families know the signs, understand their risk, and act early.

Know your normal

There is no single “right” way for breasts to look or feel. What matters is knowing what is normal for you, so that you notice when something changes. Signs worth checking include a new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit; a change in size or shape; skin changes such as dimpling, puckering, or redness; and nipple changes such as turning inward, a rash, or unusual discharge.

Most breast changes are not cancer. But many breast cancers are painless, especially early on, so any new change is worth checking with a healthcare provider.

Breast cancer can run in families

Most breast cancers are not inherited. But some are linked to inherited changes in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which can be passed down from either parent and can also raise the chance of ovarian and prostate cancer. If several close relatives have had breast, ovarian or prostate cancer, especially at a younger age, write it down and share it with your healthcare provider.

Men can get breast cancer too

Breast cancer in men is rare, but it happens, and because few men expect it, it is often found late. Men should also know their normal and seek care for any lump, swelling, nipple change or skin change on the chest.

When to reach out

You know your body best. If you notice a change, or something just does not feel right, do not wait: reach out to a healthcare provider. Talk to the women and men in your life, too. This Pinktober, one conversation could save a life.

About KAVI-ICR: KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research at the University of Nairobi advances clinical trials, vaccine discovery, immunology and clinical research in East Africa, including research into the genetics of breast, ovarian and prostate cancer in the Kenyan population. Follow us this October as we share information to help Kenyan families understand breast cancer and act early.