04/02/2024
The World Cancer Day 2022-2024 theme is 'Close the Care Gap.'
The focus in 2022 was 'Realising the problem.' In year 2023, the theme was 'Uniting our voices and taking action,' which is followed by, World Cancer Day '2024: ‘Together, we challenge those in power,' thus concluding the three-year campaign.
The number of Indians suffering from cancer is projected to increase to 29.8 million in 2025 from 26.7 million in 2021, whereas real incidence is 1.5 to 3 times higher than the reported cases. The highest incidence last year was in the North (2,408 patients per 100,000) and the Northeast (2,177 per 100,000).
India registered 9.3 lakh cancer deaths, second highest in Asia: LANCET study.
Estimates indicate India’s reported cancer incidence in 2022 to be INR 19 to 20 lakhs, whereas real incidence is 1.5 to 3 times higher than the reported cases.
High proportion of cases continue to be detected at late stages for major cancer types in India.
High burden of cancer incidence in India is resulting in a high economic burden on account of productivity losses and premature mortality.
The cancer incidence is continuing to increase in India. The new estimates will be helpful in planning cancer prevention and control activities through the intervention of early detection, risk reduction and management.
Government of India is requested “to promote health equity, enhance cancer service accessibility, reduce disparities in cancer incidence and mortality,” to finally close the care gap.
Understanding Cancer: The more we know about cancer, the more lives we can save.
Cancer is the second-leading cause of death worldwide.
10 million people die from cancer every year.
More than 40% of cancer-related death could be preventable as they are linked to modifiable risk factors such as smoking, alcohol use, poor diet and physical inactivity.
Almost at least one third of all deaths related to cancer could be prevented through routine screening, and early detection and treatment.
70% of cancer deaths occur in low-to-middle income countries.
Millions of lives could be saved each year by implementing resource appropriate strategies for prevention, early detection and treatment.
Given the current state of rising cancer disease burden and sub-optimal quality of outcomes, there is a significant need to understand the current challenges and tailor make interventions across the different stages of disease management with a deep focus on:
1. Awareness and prevention – Modifying exposure to risk factors that potentially lead to cancer
2. Detection and diagnosis – Ensuring early detection and accurate staging of the disease
3. Treatment including palliative care – Driving multidisciplinary approach to treatment with focus on affordability, equitable access, quality of outcomes and palliative care
Important tips to prevent cancer and improve the quality of life:
We are moving away from natural food to processed food which contains certain preservatives which increase the risk of cancers. Opting for a well-balanced diet can be a powerful way to prevent cancer. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals that protect against cancer-causing agents. Not only do these foods promote overall health, but they also bolster the body's natural defence mechanisms against cancer.
Maintain an optimum weight to prevent obesity which is linked to cancer.
Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer. Exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight, but it also has direct effects on hormone levels and immune function, which contribute to lowering cancer risk.
Minimizing exposure to harmful substances such as to***co smoke, air pollution, pesticides, and chemical additives in products can have a significant impact on overall well-being. By making informed choices about the products we use and advocating for cleaner environments in our communities, we can play an active role in reducing the prevalence of cancer cases.
Smoking or chewing to***co products can cause lung and oral cancer. It is better to quit the usage of these products. Alcohol abuse can cause liver cancer, so try to give up on it.
Regular screening of lung, breast, cervical, oral, colon and prostate cancer as recommended by your Physician. Do preventive health check-ups and know the status of your health to determine the risk of any cancer.
By making these simple yet powerful adjustments in your lifestyle, you're proactively taking steps toward preventing cancer and prioritizing your long-term health.
