• International Days
• World Cancer Day

World Cancer Day
Observed annually on February 4th, World Cancer Day aims to raise awareness about cancer. It highlights the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment of the disease.

Each year, 17 million new cancer cases are diagnosed worldwide, and nearly 10 million people will lose their lives to the disease. By 2040, it is projected that the number of new cancer cases will rise to 27.5 million. The most prevalent types of cancer include lung, breast (in women), colorectal, and prostate cancer.

Although cancer is widespread, there are steps that can be taken to lower the risk of developing it. The Mayo Clinic suggests the following measures to help prevent many types of cancer:

• Avoid or quit using tobacco
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, while limiting processed meats
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day
• Protect your skin from sun exposure
• Practice safe sex
• Stay up-to-date with regular medical screenings

Unfortunately, cancer doesn't only affect adults; it also impacts children. Around 300,000 children worldwide are diagnosed with cancer each year. In the United States, cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death among children. Common types of childhood cancers include leukemia, brain tumors, lymphomas, and other solid tumors. Many childhood cancers still have no known cause. Early detection and access to treatment significantly improve survival rates.

Cancer rates vary across different countries. Australia has the highest number of new cancer cases, with 468 cases per 100,000 residents annually. The United States ranks fifth, with around 352 new cases per 100,000 residents each year. Other countries with high cancer rates include New Zealand, Ireland, Hungary, Belgium, France, and Denmark.

How to Observe #WorldCancerDay

• Participate in free cancer screenings or educational discussions.
• Host training sessions for public health professionals on cancer detection, or organize live events on social media.
• The Icon Group, a cancer services provider, encourages staff, partners, and loved ones to share messages of hope on paper butterflies for those who need them most.
• Reach out to someone who has been diagnosed with cancer.
• Educate yourself on ways to reduce the risk of cancer.
• Make a donation to a cancer support or research organization.
• Read about inspiring cancer survivors such as Colin Powell, Olivia Newton-John, and Robin Roberts.
• Wear a lavender ribbon to raise awareness about cancer (note that different ribbon colors represent specific types of cancer).
• If you’ve been personally affected by cancer, share your story to inspire others.
• Explore a cancer survivor's journey in the "Celebrating Every Day" feature, or listen to the full interview on the Celebration Voices podcast.
• Whatever you choose to do, be sure to share it on social media using #WorldCancerDay.

History of World Cancer Day

World Cancer Day was established by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) on February 4th, 2000. It was founded during the World Summit Against Cancer for the New Millennium in Paris. Today, more than 900 events are held worldwide across 127 countries to mark the day.