Global breast cancer campaign aims to increase survival rates

Women in every part of the world are to be targeted in a new campaign launched today to raise awareness of the dangers of breast cancer.

The campaign, named Redefining Hope and Beauty, is supported by charities in countries including the UK, the United States, Australia, Germany, Spain and Canada. It came ahead of the start of breast cancer awareness month tomorrow.

The charities hope that raising awareness of the basic facts about the disease, such as signs and symptoms, will lead to cancers being caught earlier and increasing the chances of survival.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women after lung cancer. In the UK more than 40,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year.

More than 1.2 million people worldwide are expected to be diagnosed with the disease this year.

Speaking for all the charities involved, Ellen Verschuur, from the Dutch Breast Cancer Charity, said: "Despite the success of campaigns such as breast cancer awareness month, more work is still needed.

"The increasing availability of new treatment options and on-going research means that there is now growing hope for women who may one day be faced with a diagnosis of breast cancer."

The campaign will include a global charity auction, featuring statuettes of women's bodies decorated by celebrity supporters of the campaign.

BBC newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky helped launch the initiative, which is also supported by celebrities including actress Emma Thompson, Sharon Osbourne and Pop Idol judge Simon Cowell.

Unveiling the statuettes, Ms Kaplinsky said: "It may seem that what we are trying to say here should be common sense, but there are still many women who remain unaware of the symptoms and risks of breast cancer, or who do not have access to the vital support services which many charities provide.

"I hope that by being involved in this campaign we can help more women have a greater understanding of this widespread disease and, as a result, empower them to fight back against it."