Today is World Cancer Day! It was established in 2000 and is led by the UICC, the Union for International Cancer Control. There are approximately a thousand members from 172 countries. World Cancer Day is one singular initiative under which the entire world can unite together in the fights against the global cancer epidemic.
Cancer is a global challenge! In 2020, over 19 million people worldwide were diagnosed with cancer and there were almost 10 million cancer deaths! Today, thanks to research, 2 in 4 people in the UK survive their cancer for 10 years or more. The prospects of major advances in tackling cancer have never been greater, and international collaboration and funding are essential in realising these opportunities.
The UICC has launched a new three-year campaign around the world in an effort to close the gap in cancer care – the campaign highlights the significant barriers related to socioeconomic factors, stigma, and discrimination that prevent many people around the world from accessing life-saving preventative services, diagnostics, treatment and care. These barriers lead to wide discrepancies in the risks of developing and surviving cancer.
The 2022-2024 campaign is designed to raise awareness about the cancer care gap and ask for greater equity. The campaign calls on the cancer community, governments and health care providers to take actions adapted to national needs and resources to reduce inequity and improve access to cancer services.
If you would like to acknowledge world cancer day then why not raise funds for a cancer charity of your choice….
Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association arranged for the Tower of Refuge, Douglas Power Station and Ramsey Swing Bridge to be lit up green today to support the campaign.