What is World Cancer Day?
Every year, the fourth of February is held as World Cancer Day. It can be compared to a global rally, where all hands come together to fight against cancer. I suppose one should consider it similar to a loud knock on the head reminding one that more people should talk about cancer, try to understand the disease better, and support those who need it.
This information is clear – the numbers do not lie. As per the surveys, 18 million individuals were diagnosed with cancer in 2022. That is, there are as many people as in certain countries. Many cancer patients are emerging in one year. It is even more worrisome that several scholars predict it will rise to 29 million by 2040, which appears more probable.
But here’s the good news: It’s rather unique when one contemplates that most of these types of cancers are entirely curable if detected in time.
To what extent does the problem of cancer exist across the global regions?
Cancer isn’t evenly spread. There is a probability for every third person in the developed countries to develop cancer at some time in their lifetime. On the other hand, in less developed areas globally, the number of people who get cancer is low, but more of them die because they cannot afford good treatment as soon as possible.
Till 2022, nearly 1.4 million people were diagnosed with cancer in India, and it appears that 14 large football stadiums can be filled up with cancer patients quickly. Cancer of the breast forms the highest incidence amongst Indian women. Oral cancer again has the highest incidence among the male population in India. In the United States, the number of cancer cases that occur annually is 1.9 million people. Others are breast, lung, and prostate cancers.
What is cancer, and can it be prevented?
Good news: Researchers suggest that approximately one-fourth of all cancer cases are probably avoidable. Yes, you read that right prevented! Here’s a list of things that can increase your risk of getting cancer:
Lifestyle factors that raise cancer risk:
- Smoking tobacco
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Not exercising enough
- Eating unhealthy food
- Getting too much sun without protection
- Being overweight
Environmental factors that can cause cancer:
- Air pollution
- Certain chemicals at work
- Radiation exposure
- Some viruses and bacteria
- Contaminated water
- Secondhand smoke
How do we detect cancer early?
An early stage of cancer makes a huge difference, kind of like catching a small fire before it spreads across the whole house. There are different signs for different cancers, but some usual ones include unusual lumps, unexplained weight loss, pain that doesn’t go away, or changes in skin moles.
Do you remember all those delayed health checkups?
They are pretty important. For instance, regular mammograms will detect breast cancer early, and Pap smears will catch dangerous cervical cancer. Deaths from cervical cancer have declined by 50 percent in countries where such screening is standard.
What do cancer patients and their families need?
Fighting cancer is not only about drugs. It resembles climbing a problematic mountain; good equipment and treatment aren’t enough, but another support is necessary. Other people need to care about cancer patients because they have fear, big hopes, and, above all, a need for emotional support and help in everyday life.
Families of cancer patients also require support. Taking care of a patient with cancer is a highly laborious and sometimes frightening activity. Support groups, counseling, and a helping hand from friends and neighbors may also be a huge relief. Small things sometimes make a difference in bringing dinner or taking someone to see their doctor.
How is technology changing cancer treatment?
Modern technology is providing new weapons in the battle against cancer. This means that doctors now have better tools than ever before to identify cancer early and treat it successfully.
For example, newer drugs sometimes target cancer cells with less destruction of normal cells. In general, they lead to better results with fewer side effects.
Doctors in certain regions are adopting artificial intelligence to identify cancer from X-rays and scans. In some areas, mobile phone applications are assisting patients in tracking their symptoms and remembering medicines. These advances are like having better maps and tools for fighting cancer.
What can we do to make a difference?
Change starts with small steps. Here’s what each of us can do:
- First, most people learn about cancer by sharing what they believe is proper information with friends and family. False information is as destructive as no information.
- Be regular in health checkups. It’s like keeping your car in good condition to catch problems before they become a real headache.
- Support research into cancer and the organizations that care for cancer patients. Little money can add up to make a big difference.
- Be kind to people who have cancer. They are waging a tough battle, so understanding rather than judgment is the need of the hour.
- Healthy choices in our own lives can also play an important role. Every cigarette not smoked, every healthy meal eaten, and every exercise session completed is a step toward preventing cancer.
Conclusion:
World Cancer Day is not just about the ribbons or posting on Facebook. It is about really taking action to prevent cancer, supporting those battling it, and working towards a world in which cancer is no longer as frightening and lethal as it is today. The change begins with each of us. Together, we make a difference.
REFERENCE LINKS:
https://www.worldcancerday.org/
https://www.cancerresearch.org/world-cancer-day
https://www.emro.who.int/noncommunicable-diseases/campaigns/world-cancer-day-2023.html
https://blogs.cdc.gov/cancer/2021/02/04/world-cancer-day-lets-talk-openly-about-cancer/
https://www.paho.org/en/campaigns/world-cancer-day-2021-i-am-and-i-will