World Cancer Day: Things you should know
Today, on World Cancer Day, we come together to raise awareness, promote early detection and encourage prevention.
Hyderabad: Cancer is one of the most feared and widespread diseases globally, affecting millions of lives each year. It is the second leading cause of death worldwide and its impact extends beyond patients to their families. While there are advanced treatments and survival rates, cancer continues to be a major health challenge. The financial burden of treatment, the emotional toll and the uncertainty of recovery make it a menacing disease.
Today, on World Cancer Day, we come together to raise awareness, promote early detection and encourage prevention. In this article let’s talk about different types of cancer, their causes, treatment options and the importance of timely medical remedies.
What is World Cancer Day?
World Cancer Day is observed on February 4 every year to unite the world community in the fight against cancer. Led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), the day is observed to reduce cancer-related illness and death by spreading awareness and breaking myths surrounding the disease.
The observance plays a crucial role in reducing bias, encouraging research and supporting patients and survivors. Government, healthcare organisations and individuals worldwide participate in campaigns, social media movements and awareness programmes to highlight the importance of cancer prevention and treatment.
Understanding Cancer: What is It?
Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the body grow uncontrollably and spread to other organs. Normally, cells divide and die as needed, but in cancer, damaged cells continue to grow and form tumours. These tumours can be:
Benign (Non-Cancerous): Do not spread to other parts of the body.
Malignant (Cancerous): Spread to surrounding tissues and other organs through a process called metastasis.
Some cancers, like leukaemia, do not form solid tumours but affect the blood and bone marrow, disrupting the body’s ability to fight infections.
Causes and Risk Factors
Cancer is primarily caused by genetic mutations (change in the DNA sequence of an organism), which may occur due to lifestyle choices, environmental factors or inherited traits. Some of the key risk factors include:
• Tobacco use and smoking – The leading cause of lung and oral cancer.
• Unhealthy diet and obesity – Increases the risk of multiple cancers, including breast and colon cancer.
• Excessive alcohol consumption – Contributes to liver and throat cancer.
• UV radiation exposure – Causes skin cancer, including melanoma.
• Harmful chemicals and pollutants – Long-term exposure can lead to cancers like mesothelioma.
• Genetic predisposition – Some cancers run in families due to inherited genetic mutations.
Types of Cancer
According to NCI reports, there are over 100 types of cancer, classified based on where they originate. The most common types include:
• Carcinoma – The most common type, affecting skin, lungs, breasts and prostate (The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system that helps to produce fluid that nourishes and transports sperm)
• Leukaemia– A second most commonly heard cancer. It affects blood and bone marrow, disrupting blood cell production.
• Lymphoma – Cancer of the immune system’s lymphatic cells (Also known as lymphocytes, lymphatic cells are a type of white blood cells that play a crucial role in the immune system. They help the body fight infections, diseases and foreign invaders)
• Melanoma – A dangerous form of skin cancer.
• Brain and spinal cord tumours – Affect the central nervous system, leading to severe complications.
How is Cancer Treated?
Cancer treatment depends on the type, stage and overall health of the patient. Some of the most common treatment options include:
• Surgery – Removes localised tumours.
• Chemotherapy – Uses drugs to destroy cancer cells.
• Radiation therapy – Uses high-energy rays to target cancerous cells.
• Immunotherapy – Boosts the immune system to fight cancer.
• Hormone therapy – Blocks hormones that fuel cancer growth (primarily used for breast or prostate cancer).
• Bone marrow transplant – Replaces damaged blood stem cells.
Despite medical advancements, cancer treatments come with side effects like fatigue, nausea and weakened immunity. Supportive care, including psychological and nutritional support, is very much crucial for patients undergoing these treatments.
Can Cancer Be Prevented?
While not all cancers can be prevented, lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) and other global health organisations recommend:
• Avoiding tobacco and alcohol
• Maintaining a balanced diet and healthy weight
• Exercising regularly
• Getting vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B
• Limiting sun exposure and using sunscreen
• Attending regular screenings and check-ups
Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment. Routine screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal and prostate cancer can help identify the disease in its early stages.
Global Impact of World Cancer Day
Each year, more than 1,000 events are held in over 100 countries to spread awareness and show our support to cancer patients.
Social media campaigns, fundraisers and public discussions aim to educate people and encourage early diagnosis.
Cancer remains one of the greatest health challenges of our time but through awareness, prevention and early detection, we can save lives. On World Cancer Day, let us pledge to stay informed, support those battling cancer, and promote healthier lifestyles.
