How you can help on World Cancer Day and every day!🎗 

What is World Cancer Day?

World Cancer Day was first observed on February 4, 2000, by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to raise awareness about cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment. The day is now observed annually on February 4th. The theme for World Cancer Day changes each year, and is designed to educate the public and encourage governments to take action against cancer. The goal of World Cancer Day is to reduce the number of preventable deaths from cancer by raising awareness and education about the disease.

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were an estimated 18.1 million new cases of cancer and 9.6 million cancer deaths in 2018. The most common types of cancer are lung, breast, colorectal, prostate, and stomach cancer.

The incidence of cancer varies by geographic region, with more developed countries having higher rates of cancer than less developed countries. Factors that contribute to this include an aging population, tobacco use, exposure to environmental toxins, and changes in lifestyle and diet.

It's important to note that cancer incidence and mortality can vary depending on the country, region and even within the country. According to the American Cancer Society, in the US, the overall cancer death rate has dropped by 29% since 1991, translating to about 3 million fewer deaths.

Prevention, early detection, and treatment are key to reducing the burden of cancer. Regular cancer screenings, healthful living and lifestyle changes, and vaccination against certain types of cancer-causing infections are some of the ways to reduce the risk of developing and dying from cancer.

How to Prevent Cancer:

There are several ways to reduce the risk of developing cancer, including:

1. Eating a healthy diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in processed foods, red meat, and sugar.

2. Exercising regularly, aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per day.

3. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding weight gain as an adult.

4. Avoiding tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke.

5. Limiting alcohol consumption.

6. Protecting yourself from the sun and avoiding excessive UV radiation exposure.

7. Getting vaccinated against certain types of cancer-causing infections, such as HPV.

8. Undergoing regular cancer screenings, as recommended by your healthcare provider.

It's important to note that not all cancers can be prevented, some are hereditary or due to certain diseases, however, by reducing risk factors and early detection, the number of deaths from cancer can be reduced.

 

What can you do for World Cancer Day? 

Here are some things that individuals, organizations, and governments can do to support World Cancer Day:

1. Raise awareness about cancer by sharing information on social media, hosting events, and giving presentations.

2. Promote healthy lifestyles, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

3. Encourage cancer screenings and early detection, which can improve outcomes for people with cancer.

4. Support cancer research and advocacy organizations that are working to improve cancer care and find new treatments.

5. Advocate for policies that support cancer prevention and control, such as increasing funding for cancer research, promoting access to cancer screenings, and protecting people from exposure to cancer-causing substances.

6. Support cancer patients and their families by volunteering time, donating money or resources, or participating in fundraising events.

7. Use the official World Cancer Day materials such as logos, posters, brochures, videos, etc.

8. Wear a Unity Band, the official World Cancer Day merchandise, to show support and create a visual expression of hope and solidarity.

9. Organize or participate in a "Lights of Hope" ceremony to remember loved ones lost to cancer, and honor survivors and fighters.

10. Educate yourself about cancer and share knowledge with others to reduce myths and misconceptions about the disease.

 

I have a family member or friend with cancer, how can I support them?

Supporting a family member with cancer can be challenging, but there are many ways that you can help:

1. Listen: Your loved one may have a lot of feelings and thoughts that they want to share. Listen to them without judging or offering unsolicited advice.

2. Help with practical tasks: Offer to help with tasks such as grocery shopping, cleaning, and transportation to appointments.

3. Provide emotional support: Show your loved one that you care and that you're there for them. Let them know that they can talk to you about anything and that you'll be there to support them.

4. Respect their privacy: Remember that your loved one's cancer journey is personal and private, and that they may not want to talk about it all the time. Respect their wishes and don't push them to share more than they're comfortable with.

5. Educate yourself: Learn as much as you can about your loved one's cancer, the treatment options available and the possible side effects.

6. Be patient: Cancer treatment can be long and tiring, so be patient with your loved one as they go through this process.

7. Offer to help with childcare or pet care: If your loved one has children or pets, offer to help take care of them while they're in treatment.

8. Keep in touch: Even if you can't be with your loved one all the time, make sure to stay in touch through phone calls, texts, or emails to let them know you're thinking of them.

9. Help your loved one to access resources: Many cancer centers and organizations offer resources and support groups for patients and their families. Help your loved one to access these resources if they are interested.

Remember that everyone's experience with cancer is different and that your loved one may have different needs and preferences. Be open to their needs and be willing to adapt as they go through their journey.

 

I would like to give a gift. What is some good gifts for cancer patients?

There are many thoughtful gifts that you can give to a cancer patient to show your support and care. Here are a few ideas:

1. Comfortable clothing and blankets: Cancer patients often feel cold during treatment, so warm, comfortable clothing and blankets can be greatly appreciated.

2. A journal: A journal can be a great way for a patient to document their thoughts and feelings during their cancer journey.

3. A gift card: A gift card to a local restaurant or store can be a great way to help a patient and their family with meals or other necessities during treatment.

4. A relaxation package: A package with items such as a comfortable robe, slippers, candles, and soothing music or a book can be a great way to help a patient relax and unwind during treatment.

5. A care package: Put together a care package with items such as lotions, chapstick, and other essentials that a patient may need during treatment.

6. Entertainment: A gift of books, magazines, movies, music or games can provide a distraction and entertainment for the patient.

7. A gift of service: Offer to run errands, do house cleaning, or prepare meals for the patient and their family.

8. A gift of hope: A symbolic gift such as a piece of jewelry, a plant, or a picture can help the patient to focus on hope and positivity during their journey.

Remember that your gift doesn't have to be expensive, it's the thought and love that counts. And also, before buying a gift, it's important to check with the patient or their family if they have any preferences or restrictions.