4th February: World Cancer Day

World Cancer Day is a global observance that helps raise people’s awareness of cancer and how to prevent, detect, or treat it. This event is held on February 4 each year.

Every year, 17 million new cases of cancer throughout the world are diagnosed. Cancer will be fatal for nearly 10 million of those who receive this news. By the year 2040, it is estimated that there will be 27.5 million new cases of cancer. The most common cancers include lung, female breast, bowel, and prostate.

Despite the prevalence, it is possible to reduce the risk of getting cancer. According to the Mayo Clinic, these things can help to prevent many types of cancer:

• Avoid tobacco or stop using it
• Eat a diet that consists of fruits, vegetables, and limited amounts of processed meat
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Do at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day
• Protect yourself from the sun
• Keep up with routine medical screenings

World Cancer Day 2021 theme: ‘I Am And I Will’

Certain countries have higher cancer rates than others. Australia has the most new cases of cancer. Every year there are 468 new cases for every 100,000 residents. The United States ranks fifth on the list. Each year, there are about 352 new cases per 100,000 residents. Other countries that have high rates of cancer include New Zealand, Ireland, Hungary, Belgium, France, and Denmark.

The Union for International Cancer Control established World Cancer Day on February 4th, 2000. The day was founded in Paris at the World Summit Against Cancer for the New Millennium. Today, there are over 900 World Cancer Day events held in 127 countries.