National Cancer Awareness Day 2024: Early Screening, Better Results

National Cancer Awareness Day (NCAD) is observed annually on November 7 in India to raise awareness about the growing burden of cancer in the country. This day is an important occasion to educate the public about the risks, prevention and treatment of cancer. It also promotes early detection through screening, which is critical to improving survival rates.

This day serves as an important reminder of the growing need for increased cancer awareness, early detection and promotion of healthier lifestyles. By spreading awareness and encouraging preventive measures, the day plays a key role in reducing the burden of cancer in India and improving survival rates.

STORY

National Cancer Awareness Day is celebrated in different countries but in India it has been specially declared by the government November 7, 2024. The purpose of the day is to spread awareness about cancer prevention, early detection and treatment options. This is an important day to encourage discussion about the impact of cancer and highlight the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle that can help reduce the risk of developing cancer.

MEANING

• Raising awareness: National Cancer Awareness Day is an opportunity to spread knowledge about cancer, its causes and preventive measures people can take.
• Promoting early detection: One of the most important aspects of cancer treatment is early detection. The earlier cancer is diagnosed, the higher the chances of successful treatment.
• Reducing stigma: The day helps break down the stigma around cancer by encouraging open discussions and providing emotional support to patients and their families.
• Encouraging lifestyle changes: Cancer awareness campaigns often emphasize the importance of healthy habits, such as eating right, exercising, and not smoking or drinking excessively, which can reduce the risk of cancer.
• Honoring survivors and victims: The day also aims to recognize and honor the resilience of cancer survivors and remember those who have passed away due to cancer.

TYPES OF CANCER

Cancer is not a single disease, but a group of diseases that can affect any part of the body. Some of the most common types of cancer include:

• Breast cancer: One of the most common types of cancer among women worldwide. This is due to the growth of abnormal cells in the breast.
• Lung cancer: Lung cancer, often associated with smoking, is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide.
• Prostate cancer: A common cancer in men, especially in older age groups, affecting the prostate gland.
• Colorectal cancer (colon cancer): Affects the colon or rectum and is one of the most common types of cancer in both men and women.
• Skin cancer (melanoma): Includes different types, with melanoma being the most serious form of skin cancer.
• Leukemia: A type of cancer that affects blood cells, especially white blood cells.
• Lymphoma: Cancers affecting the lymphatic system, including Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
• Cervical cancer: Caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, cervical cancer most often affects the cervix in women.
• Bladder cancer: Cancer that starts in the cells of the bladder is more common in older people.
• Ovarian cancer: Cancer that starts in the ovaries and can affect a woman’s reproductive health.
• Pancreatic cancer: A less common but very aggressive cancer that affects the pancreas.
• Esophageal cancer: The esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach, is affected.

According to the WHO, cancer is the leading cause of global mortality, causing approximately 1 in every 6 deaths and affecting almost every household. In 2022, it is estimated that there will be 20 million new cases of cancer and 9.7 million cancer deaths worldwide. By 2050, the burden of cancer will increase by approximately 77%, placing even greater strain on health systems, people and communities.

CANCER PREVENTION METHODS ACCORDING TO THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION

Preventing cancer is not always possible, but certain lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of developing cancer. The main methods of cancer prevention include:

1. Avoid tobacco: Smoking and tobacco use are leading causes of a number of cancers, including lung, mouth and throat cancer.

2. Limit your alcohol intake.: Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to cancers of the liver, breast and digestive tract.

3. Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and low in processed foods and red meat, may reduce the risk of cancer.

4. Stay active: Regular physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of developing various types of cancer, including colorectal and breast cancer.

6. Avoid excessive sun exposure.: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays to reduce your risk of skin cancer.

7. Regular views: Early detection through screenings such as mammograms, Pap smears and colonoscopy can detect cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage.

Overall, National Cancer Awareness Day is a vital initiative aimed at spreading awareness, reducing the burden of cancer through early detection and prevention, and promoting healthier lifestyles. Its observance helps the global community understand the importance of working together to fight cancer through awareness, education and support for those affected.