Sydney, May 4 (IANS) Facebook is facing criticism from breast cancer survivors after the social network banned an ad campaign run by an Australian breast cancer non-profit, citing nudity rules.

The campaign by Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) which featured topless photos of breast cancer survivors was "specifically designed to draw attention to the disease that affects more than 19,000 people every year", according to BCNA.

The annual "Pink Bun" campaign was launched in partnership with Australian bakery chain Bakers Delight.The ads, some of which feature postmastectomy scars, were designed "to raise awareness of the importance of support and highlight the far reaching effects of breast cancer", BCNA said in a Facebook post.