World Cancer Day is observed on February 4 to make people aware of the realities of cancer and the prejudices associated with the condition. The Union of International Cancer Control (UICC) has declared the day to be a ‘global uniting initiative’.

The day urges individuals across the world to band together and battle the disease through detection, early identification and importantly, emotional support. It aims to prevent millions of deaths that occur every year by raising awareness and by educating individuals about cancer. The objectives of the day also seek to press governments and individuals across the world to take action against the disease. 

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World Cancer Day was recognised on February 4, 2000, during the World Cancer Conference for the New Millennium in Paris, France. Koichiro Matsuura, the then General Director of UNESCO, and former French President Jacques Chirac inked the Charter of Paris Against Cancer on that day. World Cancer Day has been marked with a different theme every year since then.

Cancer is now the world’s second leading cause of mortality. The campaign on this day strives to raise awareness and remove the stigma around the disease. The goal is also to minimise disease related sickness and mortality. Awareness of the misconceptions is necessary to stop the injustice that is inflicted upon those suffering due to it. Numerous events are planned by hospitals, youth and non-governmental organisations throughout the world. The disease also becomes a topic of discussion on social media, with posters and videos circulated.

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The theme of World Cancer Day 2022-2024 is ‘Close the Care Gap’. The inaugural year of this campaign focuses on identifying and recognising global disparities in cancer care. The initiative motivates reform and inspires action even after the actual day passes. The campaign, which begins today, promises more opportunity to raise awareness of the issue.