Channel Farmers Launch Pink Cap Fundraiser for Cancer Research
Farmers in the Channel region of France are taking a stand against cancer wiht a unique fundraising initiative: the sale of pink and white striped caps, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the League Against Cancer. The project, spearheaded by the FDSEA (Fédération Départementale des Syndicats d’Exploitants Agricoles) in the Manche department, aims to raise funds during October, a month dedicated to breast cancer awareness (“Pink October”).
This initiative arrives as new data highlights disparities in cancer rates and screening participation. Studies show farmers exhibit significantly lower rates of lung cancer-43% and 36% less than the general population-attributed to lower smoking rates, with 85% of farmwomen and 45% of farmmen reporting they’ve never smoked. Though, screening rates for other cancers remain a concern, with only 30% of men in the Channel undergoing prostate cancer testing and 53% of women participating in breast cancer screenings, compared to a national average of 48%. The FDSEA hopes this visible campaign will encourage both participation in screenings and vital research funding.
Inspired by a similar effort in Brittany, the caps are being produced by Armor Lux and will retail for 16 euros, with 5 euros from each sale directly donated to the League Against Cancer. Florence Goron of the FDSEA explained the motivation: “We wanted to do something for Pink October.”
The caps will be available for purchase at the Festival of Earth and Rurality this Sunday, the Lessay Fair from September 12-14, and at the FDSEA offices in Saint-Lô. Rémy Bailhache, the president, anticipates selling 250 caps and added with a smile, “You will see, there will not be before October.” The FDSEA prioritizes directing funds towards cancer research.
