Feb 4th: World Cancer Day

Did you know that February 4th is world cancer day?

WORLD CANCER DAY

World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4th, serves as a global initiative to raise awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. In 2025, the campaign theme "United by Unique" emphasizes placing individuals at the center of care, highlighting the diverse experiences of those affected by cancer.https://www.worldcancerday.org/

Cancer refers to a range of diseases marked by the unchecked growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. Under normal circumstances, cells grow and divide in a regulated manner to support healthy tissues and organs. In cancer, this regulation is disrupted, causing cells to continue growing and dividing without control. There are over 100 types of cancer, while some are well known, some aren't.

These abnormal cells can form a mass known as a tumor (though some cancers, like leukemia, don’t form tumors) and may invade nearby tissues or spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other parts of the body, a process called metastasis.

Cancer can develop in any area of the body, and it is usually named based on its origin, such as breast cancer, lung cancer, or skin cancer (melanoma). The exact causes of cancer are varied, often involving a mix of genetic mutations, environmental influences (like smoking or radiation), and lifestyle choices.

Treatment options vary based on the type, stage, and location of cancer, and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or targeted treatments.

Global Cancer Statistics

Cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide. In 2020, it accounted for nearly 10 million deaths, approximately one in six deaths globally.https://www.who.int/health-topics/cancer#tab=tab_1 The most commonly diagnosed cancers include:

• Breast Cancer: The most frequently diagnosed cancer among women.

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting people worldwide. It occurs when cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably, leading to the formation of a tumor. While it can affect anyone, regardless of gender, it predominantly impacts women, with one in eight women being diagnosed in their lifetime.

While the exact cause of breast cancer isn't fully understood, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include age, family history, genetics (such as mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes), hormonal factors (like early menstruation or late menopause), and lifestyle choices (such as alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of physical activity).

• Colorectal Cancer: Significant contributor to cancer incidence and mortality.

Colorectal cancer, which affects the colon or rectum, is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Despite its prevalence, early detection and prevention strategies can significantly improve outcomes.

• Prostate Cancer: Common diagnosis among men.

• Lung Cancer: The leading cause of cancer death globally. Lung cancer stands as the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death globally. In 2022, it was responsible for almost 2.5 million new cases, accounting for 12.4% of all cancer diagnoses. Additionally, lung cancer led to approximately 1.8 million deaths, representing 18.7% of all cancer-related fatalities. https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.3322/caac.21834?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Risk Factors and Prevention

Around one-third of cancer deaths are linked to key behavioral and dietary risks:

• Tobacco Use: A leading cause of various cancers, particularly lung cancer.

• High Body Mass Index: Associated with increased risk of several cancer types.

• Alcohol Consumption: Linked to cancers such as liver, breast, and colorectal.

• Low Fruit and Vegetable Intake: Diets lacking in fruits and vegetables can increase cancer risk.

• Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles contribute to cancer risk.

In conclusion, cancer is a widespread epidemic that affects people in all races, age, gender and even social status. It is important to always prioritize our health despite our busy schedules. Go for regular body checkups, eat healthy and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

In the same vain, let us work together to raise awareness on cancer, and if you happen to know anyone who is a cancer patient, do well to be supportive and helpful.

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