Female friendship is more powerful than ever with Cancer Council's Girls' Night In

Cancer Council is urging Australian ladies to get together during October and raise money to help beat women's cancers.

Australian women are being encouraged to host a Girls' Night In during October to raise money to help support the estimated 20,000 women who will be diagnosed with a breast or gynaecological cancer this year.

Thousands of women across the country are expected to attend or host a Girls' Night In during the month of October - with events ranging from as large as 50 to as small as five.

Hosting a Girls' Night In usually costs a fraction of the price of going out and Cancer Council encourages ladies to donate the money they save to help those affected by cancer. The money raised will help fund Cancer Council's cancer research, prevention programs and support services.

Cancer Council Australia CEO, Professor Sanchia Aranda, said Cancer Council's Girls' Night In events are about having fun and raising vital funds, but also provide an opportunity to facilitate powerful conversations to raise awareness about women's cancers.

"Thanks to advances in cancer research, early detection and prevention we have seen some great progress in women's cancers. For instance, the five year survival rate for breast cancer increased by 18% from 1983 to 2012. Survival for early breast cancer now sits around 95%, but is much less for ovarian cancer. There is still so much more work to do, especially in early detection and in supporting women during and after a diagnosis.

"Getting together at home with your girlfriends to support women's cancers is not only about fundraising - it's also a good chance to remind the important women in your life of all the things what they can do to make sure we are on top of our health - like making sure we tick that overdue pap test or mammogram off the to-do list.

"It's also an opportunity for us to share tips and ideas for supporting the ones we love who are impacted by cancer. When a friend is diagnosed with cancer it can be hard to know what to do or say - but female friendships are a powerful thing and there are simple things you can do to show to show a friend you are there for her."

Actress and TV personality Lynne McGranger said she was proud to be supporting Girls' Night In again this year.

"Around 50 Australians a day are diagnosed with a breast or gynaecological cancer. Girls' Night In is all about thinking creatively about how to host a memorable night in, while also making a positive change for those impacted by women's cancers. Simple ideas that you can make your own often work the best."

Hosts can register their event at girlsnightin.com.au to receive a free host kit or call 1300 65 65 85 for more information.

Breast and Gynaecological Cancer Facts:

• Over 50 Australian women a day are told they have a breast or gynaecological cancer.
• Types of gynaecological cancers include cervical, ovarian, vaginal, vulva and uterine.
• Sadly, around 12 Australian women will die from women's cancers each day.
• Thanks to advances in cancer research, early detection and prevention, the five year survival rate for breast cancer increased by 18% from 1983 to 2012.
• The five year survival rate for gynaecological cancers has improved by 8% from 1983 to 2012.

Girls' Night In Official Partners:

• Woolworths
• Century 21
• Curves
• New Balance
• W Lane

For more information:

• girlsnightin.com.au
• 1300 65 65 65
• #ourgirlsnightin

Pink Ribbon

Australians can also show their support for Cancer Council in October by supporting Pink Ribbon Day. This year the Pink Ribbon Day merchandise range includes an enamel pin ($5) and pens ($6). Items from the Pink Ribbon Day range can be purchased on Pink Ribbon Day at stalls near local shopping areas, train and bus stations and other major locations. Pink Ribbon Day events can also be hosted in October. Visit pinkribbon.com.au for key dates and further information.