Dr. Deepak Bharti
World Cancer Day 2025, observed every year on February 4th, serves as a universal rallying point in the battle against cancer. In 2022, there were an estimated 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths attributed to the disease worldwide, establishing cancer as one of the foremost causes of mortality globally. The rising incidence of cancer cases highlights an urgent need for heightened awareness, early detection, and effective preventive measures. World Cancer Day is a prime opportunity to unite individuals, healthcare professionals, and organizations in the shared mission to diminish cancer’s impact and enhance survival rates through education, lifestyle modifications, and global cooperation. This article delves into the importance of World Cancer Day 2025 and underscores key actions we can all undertake to lower cancer risk and improve worldwide outcomes.
Key Statistics on the Cancer Burden in India
Prevalence: India ranks third after China and the USA, with 1 in 9 individuals expected to develop cancer during their lifetime. In 2022, India documented 14.13 lakh new cancer cases. GLOBOCAN has projected that cancer cases in India will rise to 2.08 million by 2040, illustrating a significant increase of 57.5% since 2020.
Common Cancers: The most prevalent cancers in India include Breast, Oral cavity, Cervix, Lung, and Oesophagus.
Cancer-Related Deaths: Approximately 9.16 lakh cancer-related deaths were reported in India in 2022.
State-wise statistics: The Indian states with the highest projected new cancer cases in 2023 are UP, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Bihar, and Tamil Nadu. The states with the highest Crude Cancer Incidence rates include Kerala, Mizoram, Haryana, Delhi, and Karnataka. Jammu and Kashmir has recorded 80,000 cancer cases over the past six years, with the highest-ever 14,112 cases identified in 2023-24.
Importance of World Cancer Day
World Cancer Day is crucial in drawing attention to the global cancer burden. It is a day dedicated to:
Raising Awareness: World Cancer Day emphasizes the increasing prevalence of cancer globally and informs the public about risks, symptoms, and the importance of early detection.
Reducing Stigma: Cancer is often surrounded by stigma, fear, and a lack of understanding in various cultures. World Cancer Day aims to dismantle these barriers by fostering open dialogue, promoting empathy, and offering support to those affected by the disease.
Promoting Early Detection: Early detection is essential for enhancing cancer survival rates. By informing the public about screening techniques and the importance of self-exams, World Cancer Day aids in fostering understanding of how early detection can lead to more effective and less invasive treatments.
Advocating for Action: World Cancer Day calls out to governments, healthcare providers, and global organizations to prioritize cancer care and fund essential research.
Inspiring Personal Action: Through initiatives like “I Am and I Will,” World Cancer Day empowers individuals to take charge of their health by embracing healthier lifestyles and pursuing regular medical check-ups.
Theme of World Cancer Day 2025
The theme for World Cancer Day 2025 is “United by Unique,” which underscores the significance of personalized, patient-centered care in combating cancer. It will focus on the following areas:
* 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
* Avoiding 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 vital for enhancing treatment efficacy, survival rates, and overall quality of life. Early identification of cancer leads to more manageable treatment options and better prognosis. Here’s why early detection is important:
* 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
* Personalized 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 impactful ways to combat cancer is through awareness. Informing others about cancer risk factors, early signs, and prevention strategies can save lives. Utilize your voice, social media, or community groups to share valuable information, dispel myths, and encourage healthy behaviors.
* Share articles, videos, and posts about cancer prevention and early detection on social media.
* Motivate loved ones to undergo regular screenings and self-examinations.
* Host or participate in community events on World Cancer Day to raise awareness.
Participate in Fundraising
Financial support for cancer research and patient care is essential for developing treatment options and ensuring care for affected individuals. Fundraising efforts help generate resources for research, treatment, and support services, contributing to the ongoing battle against cancer.
* Join charity runs, walks, or fundraising events to support cancer research.
* Donate to recognized cancer research organizations, such as UICC or Cancer Research UK.
Volunteer for Cancer Support Services
* Volunteer at local cancer support organizations, hospitals, or charities.
* Contribute your skills and services, be it through counseling, transportation, or administrative assistance for cancer organizations.
* Create or join support groups for cancer patients and their families to provide emotional and social backing.
Encourage Healthy Lifestyles
Fostering cancer prevention starts with advocating for healthier lifestyles. Inspire friends and family to adopt habits that reduce their cancer risk, including a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and avoidance of tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.
* Set a positive example by engaging in physical activities such as walking, running, or yoga.
* Organize healthy cooking classes or workshops to advocate for cancer-preventative diets.
* Raise awareness about the hazards of smoking and alcohol misuse, encouraging others to quit or reduce their consumption.
Donate Blood or Organize Blood Drives
Cancer treatments like chemotherapy often result in lower blood counts, making blood donations essential for patients undergoing treatment. Donating blood or organizing drives ensures patients have access to this vital resource.
* Regularly donate blood or arrange local blood drives in your community.
* Encourage others to donate blood through awareness campaigns or social media posts.
Support Cancer Survivors
* Volunteer with organizations that provide post-treatment support for cancer survivors.
* Offer emotional support to cancer survivors through group therapy, peer counseling, or individual assistance.
* Help raise awareness about the significance of long-term care and quality of life for cancer survivors.
Conclusion
World Cancer Day 2025 serves as a crucial reminder of the collective efforts needed to mitigate cancer’s impact. With increased awareness, early detection, and advancements in treatments, we can collaboratively strive to combat cancer more effectively. If you or a loved one has concerns about cancer or requires expert assistance, we offer comprehensive cancer services, encompassing prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and support.
(The author is Editorial Secretary, JK Science Cancer Super-Specialist SMVDNSH, Katra)
