Dr Deepak Bharti
World Cancer Day 2025, observed on the 4th of February each year, serves as a global call to action in the fight against cancer. With an estimated 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million cancer-related deaths reported globally in 2022, cancer continues to be one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The growing number of cancer cases underscores the urgent need for increased awareness, early detection, and effective prevention strategies. The World Cancer Day provides an opportunity to unite individuals, healthcare professionals, and organisations in the collective effort to reduce cancer’s impact and improve survival rates through education, lifestyle changes, and global collaboration. This article explores the significance of World Cancer Day 2025 and highlights key actions we can all take to reduce cancer risk and improve global outcomes.
Key Statistics on the Cancer Burden in India
Prevalence: India ranked third after China and USA. In India, 1 in 9 people are likely to develop cancer in their lifetime. In 2022, India witnessed 14.13 lakh new cancer cases. GLOBOCON predicted that cancer cases in India increase to 2.08 million in 2040 from 2020 accounting for a rise of 57.5%.
Common Cancers: Breast, Oral cavity, Cervix, Lung and Oesophagus are the top 5 cancers in India.
Cancer-Related Deaths: In 2022, 9.16 lakhs (approx.) cancer related deaths occurred in India.
State wise statistics: The top Indian states estimated to have the highest number of new cancer cases in 2023 are UP, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Bihar, and Tamil Nadu. States with highest Crude Cancer Incidence rates are Kerala, Mizoram, Haryana, Delhi and Karnataka. Jammu and Kashmir had witnessed 80,000 cancer cases in the last 6 years and highest-ever 14,112 cases recorded in 2023-24.
Importance of World Cancer Day
World Cancer Day plays a vital role in bringing attention to the global cancer burden. It is a day dedicated to:
Raising Awareness: World Cancer Day shines a spotlight on the growing prevalence of cancer worldwide and educates the public on the risks, symptoms, and importance of early detection
Reducing Stigma: In many cultures, cancer is often shrouded in stigma, fear, and misunderstanding. World Cancer Day seeks to break down these barriers by encouraging open discussions, promoting empathy, and offering support to those affected by the disease.
Promoting Early Detection: Early detection is key to improving cancer survival rates. By raising awareness of screening methods and the importance of self-exams, World Cancer Day helps people understand how early detection can lead to more effective and less invasive treatment options.
Advocating for Action: World Cancer Day calls on governments, healthcare providers, and global organisations to prioritise cancer care and fund research.
Inspiring Personal Action: Through campaigns like “I Am and I Will,” World Cancer Day empowers individuals to take responsibility for their health by adopting healthier lifestyles and seeking regular medical check-ups.
Theme of World Cancer Day 2025
The theme for World Cancer Day 2025 is “United by Unique”, which emphasises the importance of personalised, people-centred care in the fight against cancer. It will work on below mentioned headings:
* Personalized and Adaptive Treatment Plan
* Healthcare for All
* Empathy in Treatment
* Public – Private Collaboration for Better Outcomes
* Cancer Care Gaps – Awareness
Risk Factors for Cancer
* Age and Gender
* Family History and Genetics
* Tobacco Use
* Poor Diet and Physical Inactivity
* Exposure to Environmental Carcinogens
* Infections
* Hormonal Factors
* Alcohol Consumption
Preventive Measures against Cancer
* Healthy Diet and Nutrition
* Regular Physical Activity
* Avoid Tobacco Use
* Cancer Screenings and Early Detection
* Vaccination against Cancer-Causing Viruses
* Protecting Skin from the Sun (UV rays)
* Avoiding Environmental Carcinogens
The Importance of Early Detection in Cancer Treatment
Early detection of cancer is key to improving treatment success, survival rates, and overall quality of life. When cancer is caught early, it is more treatable, leading to better outcomes and lower mortality rates. Here’s why early detection matters:
* Increased Treatment Success
* Improved Survival/Cure Rates:
* Lower Treatment Costs
* Better Quality of Life
* Empowering Individuals
Advancements in Cancer Research and Treatment
* Liquid Biopsy
* Next Generation Sequencing
* Personalised and Precision Oncology
* Targeted therapy
* Immunotherapy
* Antibody Drug Conjugates
* Gene Therapy
* CAR-T cell therapy
* Role of Artificial Intelligence
How Can We Contribute
Spread Awareness
One of the most effective ways to fight cancer is through awareness. Educating others about cancer risk factors, early signs, and prevention strategies can save lives. Use your voice, social media platforms, or community groups to share valuable information, debunk myths, and encourage healthy habits.
* Share articles, videos, and posts on cancer prevention and early detection on social media.
* Encourage loved ones to get regular screenings and self-exams.
* Host or attend community events on World Cancer Day to raise awareness.
Participate in Fundraising
Supporting cancer research and patient care financially is crucial for advancing treatment options and ensuring that those affected by cancer receive the care they need. Fundraisers help raise money for research, treatment, and support services, contributing to the ongoing fight against cancer.
* Participate in charity runs, walks, or fundraisers to raise money for cancer research.
* Donate to reputable cancer research organisations, such as UICC or Cancer Research UK.
Volunteer for Cancer Support Services
* Volunteer at local cancer support centres, hospitals, or charities.
* Offer your skills and services, whether through counselling, transportation, or administrative support for cancer organisations.
* Join or create support groups for cancer patients and their families to offer emotional and social support.
Encourage Healthy Lifestyles
Supporting cancer prevention begins with promoting healthier lifestyles. Encourage friends and family to adopt habits that lower their cancer risk, such as eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.
* Lead by example and engage in physical activities such as walking, running, or yoga.
* Organise healthy cooking classes or workshops to promote cancer-preventive diets.
* Help raise awareness about the dangers of smoking and alcohol abuse, encouraging others to quit or limit intake.
Donate Blood or Organise Blood Drives
Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, often lead to a decreased blood count, making blood donations crucial for cancer patients undergoing treatment. Donating blood or helping organise blood drives ensures that patients have access to this life-saving resource.
Donate blood regularly or organise local blood drives in your community.
Encourage others to donate blood through awareness campaigns or social media posts.
Support Cancer Survivors
* Volunteer with organisations that provide post-treatment support for cancer survivors.
* Provide emotional support to cancer survivors through group therapy, peer counselling, or one-on-one support.
* Assist in raising awareness about the importance of long-term care and quality of life for cancer survivors.
Conclusion
World Cancer Day 2025 serves as a reminder of the global efforts needed to reduce the impact of cancer. With increasing awareness, early detection, and advancements in treatment, we can work together to fight cancer more effectively. If you or a loved one is concerned about cancer or needs expert guidance, we are offering comprehensive cancer services, from prevention and diagnosis to treatment and support.
(The author is Editorial Secretary, JK Science Cancer Super-Specialist SMVDNSH, Katra)
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