Get involved

and show your support for

World Cancer Day

every 4 February

World Cancer Day takes place on 4 February each year.  The day was first organised by the International Union against Cancer in 2005.

If you, like me, know someone who has either survived or died from this terrible disease, then this is the perfect chance to raise awareness of the ways we can prevent cancer through the choices we make.

Did you know that 30-40% of cancers can be cured through early diagnosis and treatment?

This is the reason why it is so important that we do what we can to prevent cancer and ensure that we all live a healthier life.  I think by now most of us are aware of the risks of tobacco and excessive alcohol use.

We are all aware of the importance of a healthy diet and maintenance of a healthy weight!  Obesity has its own health consequences, for example, diabetes, heart disease and musculoskeletal disorders.

However, some studies have reported a link between obesity and cancers of the gallbladder, ovaries and pancreas.  So get more active and help reduce your risk of cancer.

Each year World Cancer Day focuses on a different issue that we can try and change in ourselves.  In the past these have included giving children a smoke-free environment and encouraging healthy diets and exercise.

In previous years the emphasis has been on teaching youngsters to avoid UV exposure and be “sun-smart”.  Skin cancer is often caused by the excessive exposure to the sun, and while it is one of the most diagnosed forms of cancer, it is thought that there are 100,000 cases each year in the UK alone.

In 2019 the theme will be “I am and I will”, and the purpose of the day is to highlight solutions that do exist and take a proactive approach in the fight against cancer – cancer affects everyone, no matter where they may be in the world!

To get involved with the World Cancer Campaign you can find out all you need to know at the World Cancer Day website.