World Cancer Day is observed annually on February 4 to raise awareness, spur change, and lessen the burden of cancer on the world. The goal is to lessen misconceptions about cancer and the stigmas attached to it to assist individuals in receiving accurate information about it. Additionally, it presents an opportunity to influence cancer patients' and survivors' quality of life. World Cancer Day has been dubbed a "global uniting initiative" by the Union of International Cancer Control (UICC).
World Cancer Day: Significance
The primary goals of the day are to increase awareness and lessen the stigma attached to the illness. The second greatest cause of death worldwide is cancer. Lung, breast, cervical, head & neck, and colorectal cancer are the most common cancers in Indians (CRC). On Globe Cancer Day, everyone gets together to eradicate cancer from the world. Numerous activities are scheduled for this day where it will be discussed how to inform people about cancer and its early detection, treatment, and other aspects.
HISTORY OF WORLD CANCER DAY
Cancer is one of the major causes of death worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. In 1993, the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) was founded. It is a membership-based association with headquarters in Geneva that strives to end cancer globally and advance medical research. In Geneva, Switzerland that year, the inaugural International Cancer Day was observed under its direction. This project was backed by numerous reputable organizations, cancer societies, and treatment facilities.
The inaugural World Summit Against Cancer in 2000 saw the official establishment of World Cancer Day. Members of cancer groups and significant world leaders from governments attended the event, which was held in Paris. The ten-article "Charter of Paris Against Cancer" was signed, indicating an international commitment to enhancing the support and quality of life of cancer patients. The development and increasing funding for cancer research, screening, and treatment was also emphasized. This charter's Article X formally established February 4 as World Cancer Day.
There are many different varieties of cancer, so different colors and symbols are used to identify each type and raise awareness of the battle against it. For instance, the orange ribbon is used to raise awareness of cancer among youngsters, but the pink ribbon is used to promote breast cancer awareness all around the world. The American Cancer Society uses the daffodil flower as a representation of hope for sufferers and survivors of this life-threatening illness.
Each year, thousands of events and fundraising efforts are held on this day in hospitals, schools, businesses, markets, community halls, parks, etc. to unite people and organizations and serve as a powerful reminder that those affected by cancer are not alone and that everyone has a role to play in lessening the disease's global impact.
WHY WORLD CANCER DAY IS IMPORTANT
1. It is possible to prevent one-third of the most common cancers
With the correct cancer prevention strategies, a lot may be done on an individual, community, and policy level. Just one person can be greatly impacted by taking the time to learn what you, your family, and your community can do to make a difference.
2. Early indications of cancer exist.
There are warning signs and symptoms for many malignancies, and the advantages of early detection are undeniable. Regardless of how busy you are, making the time to visit the doctor and get a checkup will help you become more aware and at ease.
3. Discussing cancer can truly aid in everyone's recovery
Even though talking about cancer can be challenging, especially in some cultures and contexts, doing so can lead to better results for people on an individual, societal, and policy level. Everyone can feel like they are a part of the solution by knowing where to turn for assistance and being a part of a broader support system.
