Every February 4th we celebrate #WorldCancerDay, an initiative led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). Claiming over 10 million lives each year, every one of us feels touched by this tragic disease in both universal and distinct ways. Added to this fight is now COVID, as our global community faces ever-increasing delays in diagnosis and treatment to what has become the second-leading cause of death worldwide.
Looking closer at the data, 70% of cancer deaths occur in less economically stable countries. For this reason, this year’s theme is “Close the Care Gap”, which is all about raising awareness for the equity gap between various global economies facing this disease.
What is cancer?
Cancer is a disease which occurs when changes in a group of normal cells within the body lead to uncontrolled, abnormal growth forming a lump called a tumour; this is true of all cancers except leukaemia (cancer of the blood). If left untreated, tumours can grow and spread into the surrounding normal tissue, or to other parts of the body via the bloodstream and lymphatic systems, and can affect the digestive, nervous and circulatory systems or release hormones that may affect body function (Source UICC).
How can I help?
Educating ourselves on this and sharing what we’ve learned is a great way to raise awareness. The more people know about it and try to help, the faster the gap will close. Some easy ways to help are:
- Share on social media. UICC has some easy to share resources you can try! Just remember to add the hashtag #WorldCancerDay!
- Keep an eye on your health. At least one third of common cancers are preventable. Talk to your doctor if you have questions.
- Host or volunteer at a World Cancer Day event.
- Donate. There are thousands of nonprofits out there that fight cancer in different ways, but they can’t do much without funding. A small donation can go a long way!
Some examples and their mission are:
- Skin Cancer Foundation
- Empower people to take a proactive approach to daily sun protection and the early detection and treatment of skin cancer.
- Pancreatic Cancer Association of Western New York
- Create awareness, raise funds, and advocate for those affected by pancreatic cancer.
- Fight Colorectal Cancer
- Fight to cure colorectal cancer and serve as relentless champions of hope for all affected by this disease through informed patient support, impactful policy change, and breakthrough research endeavors.
- Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children
- Provide social, emotional and financial support directly to families managing the health and well being of a loved one with pediatric cancer.
There are of course a lot more organizations, and it’s always good to do your own research on them so you can make sure your support is going to a cause you care about. These are just some of the many ways you can help others, in addition to remembering that we are all on a journey to advance cancer prevention through better self-care just as much as we are here to find a cure for it.
