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Every year on February 4, people celebrate World Cancer Day. By 2040, an astounding 2 million instances of cancer are expected to occur in India. Over the past few decades, cancer—the second largest cause of death globally—has grown to be a serious health problem. The silent killer spreads slowly before exhibiting symptoms that are evident and frequently goes unnoticed in its early stages. The secret to surviving this fatal illness is early detection. The lethal illness is on the rise in India as well. Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) estimates that 19.3 million cancer cases occurred globally in 2020.
One in nine people will likely get cancer in their lifetime, according to the National Cancer Registry Programme. The most common malignancies in men and women, respectively, were lung and breast cancers. Childhood lymphoid leukaemia has become the most prevalent malignancy.
Date of World Cancer Day
Every year on February 4, the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) organises, an international awareness campaign. Most often, cancer is caused by an unchecked, abnormal proliferation of cells in the body that results in a mass or tumour. Tumours can develop, spread to other body areas, and impair all bodily functions if they are not treated.
World Cancer Day’s history
The inaugural World Cancer Day was observed on February 4, 2000, during the Paris-based World Summit Against Cancer for the New Millennium. The goals of the Paris Charter, which also established World Cancer Day, are to advance research, prevent cancer, enhance patient care, increase public awareness, and galvanise the international community to advance the fight against cancer.
World Cancer Day’s theme
According to Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, the goal of World Cancer Day will be to “Close the cancer gap” between 2022 and 2024.
“This year is the campaign’s third and last year. “Together, we challenge those in power” is this year’s theme. According to Dr. Moeti’s society Cancer Day address, this topic captures the worldwide call on leaders to give cancer prevention and care top priority, provide more funds for this cause, and take further action to create a just and cancer-free society.
On World Cancer Day: Kinds and Risks
Among its frequent forms are sarcoma, leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma, brain and spinal cord malignancies, and carcinomas. A variety of variables, both modifiable and non-modifiable, can cause cancer. Numerous lifestyle variables, such as excessive alcohol use, obesity, unhealthy eating patterns, and inactivity, are linked to the development of several malignancies. Additionally, some people have a genetic predisposition to cancer, which increases their chance of developing the illness. Individuals who have weakened immune systems are more vulnerable. Exposure to artificial radiation sources such as gamma and x-rays may potentially be the cause. About 2.2 million cancer deaths worldwide are ascribed to certain illnesses, which can also cause cancer.
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