RECOGNISING the importance of early detection of breast cancer in order to save lives is the aim of the Pink October Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which starts on October 1, with a Pink Bicycle Bike Ride in Nuku'alofa.

In supporting the Pink October campaign, MBF bank on September 29 donated $1,000 in support of the breast cancer awareness activities to Christine 'Uta'atu, the Tonga Breast Cancer Society Treasurer.

Christine said this year's theme is "Early Detection" with a range of activities. Pink October would be launched on October 3 to be followed on October 12 with a Pink Lunch, a fundraising event that has been a highlight of the activities over the years.

Other activities would include women survivors of breast cancer going out to villages and meeting women to hold meetings and raise awareness on breast cancer. Talk back shows on TV Tonga are also part of the awareness program.

The Tonga Breast Cancer Society was formed in February 2007, and annually the society has marked Pink October.