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Cancer refers to the abnormal growth of cells that divide uncontrollably.
World Cancer Day is celebrated on February 4 every year. The day aims to promote cancer awareness. It also helps to strengthen actions that seek to improve cancer care, detection, preventive measures and treatment. Cancer is a large group of diseases that can affect any organ or tissue in the body. It refers to the abnormal growth of cells that divide uncontrollably. Cancer has the ability to spread from one part/organ/tissue of the body to another.
World Cancer Day 2024: Theme
The theme for World Cancer Day 2024 is “Closing the care gap: everyone deserves access to cancer care.” It is part of a three-year campaign, from 2022 to 2024.
The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) is focusing on a single agenda within this campaign. According to the UICC, the agenda for 2024 is “Together, we challenge those in power.”
Every year, on this day, multiple activities and events take place around the world. Both online and offline activities act as a powerful reminder that every individual plays a role in reducing the burden of cancer and raising awareness.
History
World Cancer Day was first celebrated on February 4, 2000, at the World Cancer Summit for the New Millennium in Paris.
More about cancer
According to the World Health Organization, cancer is the second cause of death worldwide. The burden of cancer continues to grow globally. However, survival rates are improving with the help of advanced diagnosis and treatment.
Regular screening and early detection are two major key factors that help improve survival rates.
“Lung, prostate, colorectal, stomach and liver cancer are the most common types of cancer in men, while breast, colorectal, lung, cervical and thyroid cancer are the most common among women,” mentions the WHO website.
Tobacco use alone accounts for about a third of cancer deaths. Other risk factors include a high body mass index, alcohol consumption, family history, some health conditions, environment, infections with certain viruses, and more.
Common treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, bone marrow transplant, targeted drug therapy, and more.
Disclaimer: This content, which includes advice, provides generic information only. In no case does it replace a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV takes no responsibility for this information.