World Cancer Day

World Cancer Day History

World Cancer Day aims to raise public awareness about cancer, its causes, detection, and treatment. Established by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), the occasion is devoted to educating the public about preventive measures, promoting governmental and individual action against the disease, and showing support for cancer patients and survivors. It carries significant importance as the disease affects lives globally, offering a platform for open discussions and systematic efforts for cancer control.

World Cancer Day’s inception took place in 2000 at the World Summit Against Cancer held in Paris. In Canada, cancer remains one of the leading causes of death. The Canadian Cancer Society estimates approximately half of all Canadians will develop cancer in their lifetime, highlighting the immediate relevance and necessitarian dialogue fostered by World Cancer Day. The occasion serves as a strong reminder for Canadians to participate in preventative measures such as adopting healthy lifestyles, undergoing regular medical check-ups, and getting timely vaccinations to mitigate cancer risks.

In Canada, World Cancer Day is observed in various ways. Events such as informational seminars, fundraisers, art exhibitions, and walks or runs are organized to enlighten the community about the disease and support cancer research. Schools, offices, and non-profit organizations often participate in these activities, which typically involve cancer survivors sharing their stories to inspire and educate others. World Cancer Day occurs on the 4th of February each year, coinciding with the global observance.

Facts about World Cancer Day

• The theme for World Cancer Day in 2023-2024 was Close the care gap. Everyone deserves access to cancer care.
• World Cancer Day was created on February 4, 2000 at the World Summit Against Cancer for the New Millennium in Paris. The Paris Charter aimed to promote research, prevent cancer, improve patient services, raise awareness, and mobilize the global community to make progress against cancer.
• According to the World Health Organization, at least one-third of all cancer cases are preventable. Lifestyle changes such as not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, keeping active, and eating right can prevent certain types of cancer.
• Cancer is the leading cause of death in Canada, with an estimated 233,900 new cases and 85,000 deaths from cancer in 2022 alone.

In the News and Trending in Canada for World Cancer Day

Top things to do in Canada for World Cancer Day

• Understand the risks of smoking and urge those that you know to quit smoking. Smoking accounts for 25% of all cancer deaths globally each year.
• Join the fundraising activities to support cancer victims, their families, and the continued research efforts to find a cure. Many communities offer Walks for the Cure and other types of fundraising events that can support cancer survivors or those who receive treatment.
• Learn to recognize some of the general signs and symptoms of cancer. Although they differ by the type of cancer, some of the American Cancer Society's general signs and symptoms are:
  1) the presence of an obvious mass (a bump)
  2) unexplained weight loss
  3) loss of appetite
  4) frequent fevers
• Watch the Documentary The C Word which explors alternative therapies for cancer treatment in Canada.