The day was started by the Union for International Cancer Control in 2008, World Cancer Day activities seek to significantly reduce illness and death caused by cancer by 2020.
WHEN IS WORLD CANCER DAY 2023?
World Cancer Day is observed worldwide on February 4. The aim is to inform and encourage people on its prevention, early detection, and treatment. This initiative was taken by the Union for International Cancer Control to campaign and advocate for the targets of the World Cancer Declaration, penned in 2008.
HOW TO OBSERVE WORLD CANCER DAY
Take a moment and commit
Take a moment to reflect on cancer’s impact on you — and commit to taking positive action, whether it is donating time or money, scheduling a doctor’s appointment, or making a healthier choice at mealtime today.
Reach out and remember
Take a moment to connect with your loved ones who have been touched by the big “C.”
WHY WORLD CANCER DAY IS IMPORTANT
One-third of the most common cancers can be prevented
There is a lot that can be done at an individual, community, and policy level with the right strategies for cancer prevention. Taking the time to understand what you, your family, and your community can do to make a difference can have a huge impact on just one person.
Cancer does have warning signs
For many cancers, there are warning signs and symptoms and the benefits of early detection are indisputable. As busy as you may be, taking time to get that check-up and speak with your doctor can help create awareness and peace of mind.
Talking about cancer can actually help everyone heal
While cancer can be a difficult topic to address, particularly in some cultures and settings, dealing with the disease openly can improve outcomes at an individual, community, and policy level. Knowing where to go for help and being part of a larger support network can help everyone feel part of the solution.
The good news to feel better about is that about one-third of common cancers are preventable and treatable, so positivity and awareness is the key.
