October brings crisp air, colorful leaves, and the return of pink ribbons on everything from clothing to food packaging. These ribbons are meant to symbolize hope and awareness for breast cancer, yet their widespread use raises an important question: how much of the money raised through pink ribbon campaigns actually supports meaningful research and services?

The commercialization of breast cancer awareness has created a practice often called “pinkwashing.” Companies market pink products to boost sales while contributing very little, if anything, to the cause. In some cases, the products themselves may even contain ingredients linked to cancer. This disconnect underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in how funds are raised and used.

As consumers, it is important to ask key questions before making a purchase. How much of the proceeds are donated, and is that amount clearly disclosed? Who benefits from the funds? Is it an established research center, a local organization, or an unnamed entity? Will the dollars make a difference in your community, or will they be absorbed by a national campaign with little local impact?

The Breast Cancer Coalition is committed to transparency. Every donation stays in New York, directly funding free programs and services for those impacted by breast or gynecologic cancer.