The Estée Lauder Companies Continue its Mission Towards a Breast Cancer-Free World for the 32nd Year by Collaborating
The Estée Lauder Companies Continue its Mission Towards a Breast Cancer-Free World for the 32nd Year by Collaborating with the National Cancer Institute to Host Proactive Breast Cancer Screenings and Educational Sessions on “Understanding Breast Cancer” and “Self-Examination Methods” for the Public
The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC), also known as ELCA (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a global beauty industry leader under The Estée Lauder Companies Inc., continues its mission to help create a breast cancer-free world for all. This commitment falls under its Breast Cancer Campaign, an initiative that began in 1992 by Evelyn H. Lauder, who recognized the importance of raising awareness about breast cancer and its impacts on women’s health. In 2024, ELC Thailand is collaborating with the National Cancer Institute to organize educational sessions on “Understanding Breast Cancer” and “Self-Examination Methods.” Additionally, the company has donated 1.2 million THB in 2024 to support mobile breast cancer screenings for undeserved and at-risk groups.
Ms. Tipaporn Unakul, Managing Director of ELCA (Thailand) Co., Ltd., revealed, “In Thailand, the Breast Cancer Campaign has reached its 21st year. Throughout this time, we have partnered with non-governmental organizations and various private sectors partners to facilitate proactive breast cancer screenings and continually raise awareness about the dangers of breast cancer. Last year, we collaborated with the National Cancer Institute to launch a proactive breast cancer screening campaign for Thai working women aged 40 and above, reaching over 1,500 individuals. This year, we are continuing our efforts with the National Cancer Institute.”
This year, ELC has donated 1.2 million THB to fund breast cancer screenings for low-income groups at three locations through collaboration with Central Department Stores including Central Mega Bangna, Central Nakhon Pathom, and Robinson Chonburi. Furthermore, the Breast Cancer Campaign will host an exhibition at Central Chidlom from October to November 2024, and ELC is working with One Bangkok to organize a seminar for office workers on October 8, 2024, which will include sharing from cancer experts from the National Cancer Institute.
“We are proud to have driven this campaign for over two decades. Globally, The Estée Lauder Companies, together with various foundations, have raised over US$131 million to fund lifesaving breast cancer research, education, and medical services. This reinforces the company’s commitment to continuing its mission towards a breast cancer-free world for all,” said Tipaporn.
Air Vice Marshal Dr. Somchai Thanachittichai, Director of the National Cancer Institute, noted that breast cancer remains a public health issue in Thailand. Data shows that breast cancer is the most common cancer among Thai women, with an increasing incidence rate. Each year, more than 20,000 Thai women are newly diagnosed with breast cancer, and 4,700 women die from the disease annually. Factors contributing to breast cancer include age (particularly in women over 40), a history of breast lumps, or family history of breast cancer. Additionally, high-fat diets, obesity, and alcohol consumption may increase the risk. However, breast cancer can be detected early, and patients who receive early treatment have a high chance of recovery.
In 2023, through the collaboration between ELC and the National Cancer Institute, the “Proactive Women’s Cancer Screening Campaign for Thai Working Women” saw more women receive access to cancer screening services. This campaign has provided cervical cancer screening using the HPV DNA Test for 294 women and breast cancer screening (CBE) for 637 women. The National Cancer Institute also deployed a mobile digital mammography and automated ultrasound service, screening 240 women. Those with abnormal results will receive further diagnosis and treatment. This initiative emphasizes the importance of early screening and the potential for early-stage breast cancer to be cured.
Ms. Natthira Boonsri, Chief Executive Officer of Central Department Stores under Central Retail, said, “Central Department Stores and our affiliated companies recognize the cancer challenges in Thailand, particularly in relation to cancers that disproportionately impact women. Early detection and treatment can reduce the severity of these diseases. We are honored to collaborate with ELCA on this project by supporting an exhibition that aims to raise awareness and promote breast cancer prevention. This is in addition to Central Group’s ongoing campaign, ‘Central Group Women Cancer 2024,’ which encourages donations to purchase emergency ambulances for the National Cancer Institute. All of these efforts aim to offer hope to patients and inspire a focus on health improvement.”
