World Cancer Day 2024: World Cancer Day is observed on February 4 annually to raise awareness of cancer and encourage its prevention, detection and treatment. The day is marked by different initiatives under the United Nations program to end the injustice of the preventable suffering from cancer.
This year the theme for World Cancer 2024 is “Together, we challenge those in power” which aims to encompass the global demand for leaders to prioritize and invest in cancer prevention and care and to do more to achieve a just and cancer-free world. According to WHO, “this year’s theme is auspicious as it reinforces all persons and groups’ universal right to health. We believe that regardless of socioeconomic status, geographic location, age, and gender, every person must be afforded an equal chance at the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer.”
Why is World Cancer Day on February 4?
World Cancer Day was introduced on 4 February 2000 at the World Summit Against Cancer for the New Millennium in Paris.
“As a sponsor for World Cancer Day, we believe that your health matters, no matter your age. As a part of our When Cancer Grows Old initiative, Sanofi is collaborating with the global cancer community, including advocates and healthcare providers around the world, to give people with cancer the best possible chance to grow older.”- Vanina Laurent-Ledru- Vice President of Global Public Affairs, Sanofi Specialty Care, SANOFI
What is the significance of World Cancer Day?
World Cancer Day holds great importance as a global initiative to raise awareness about cancer. The day encourages prevention, detection, and treatment of the deadly disease and advocates for increased research and support for those affected by the disease. It was established by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to serve as a platform to unite individuals, communities, governments, and organizations worldwide in the fight against cancer.
Source: World Cancer Day Organisations
The primary objectives of World Cancer Day are to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding cancer and promote education about risk factors and prevention strategies to foster a sense of solidarity among cancer survivors, patients, caregivers, and the wider community. Also, the day aims to reduce the increasing number of cancer patients through early detection and access to timely and quality treatment.
Source: World Cancer Day Organisations
World Cancer Day is a day to inspire actions, and policy changes to minimize the infection and provide support and care to the affected individuals through collective efforts. This annual event emphasizes the need to address challenges posed by cancer and work towards its prevention and control.
10 million people die each year from cancer. That’s more than HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis combined. Experts say if we don’t act now, cancer death rates can rise to 13 million by 2030. And if we act on time, more than one-third of cancer cases can be prevented. Another third can be cured if detected early and treated properly, saving millions of lives every year.
Source: World Cancer Day Organisation
World Cancer Day 2024: Date, Theme, History, Significance, and Key Facts here
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