New Delhi: National Cancer Awareness Day is observed in India on November 7 each year to raise awareness about the various aspects of cancer, including its symptoms, severity, and treatment options.
Cancer is a widespread and deadly disease worldwide, and its prevalence has been increasing, including in India. According to the World Cancer Report from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), one in 10 Indians may develop cancer during their lifetime, and one in 15 may succumb to it. Lifestyle factors play a significant role in cancer development, with conditions like breast and colorectal cancer being associated with factors like excess weight, low physical activity, and a sedentary lifestyle. National Cancer Awareness Day aims to educate the public about different types of cancer, the importance of early detection, and lifestyle changes that can help combat the disease.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is a diverse group of diseases that can originate in any organ or tissue of the body. It occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and may spread to other parts of the body, a condition known as metastatic cancer. Globally, leading causes of cancer-related deaths include lung, prostate, colorectal, stomach, and liver cancers in men, while breast, colorectal, lung, cervical, and thyroid cancers are more common among women.
History of Cancer Awareness Day
The history of National Cancer Awareness Day in India dates back to September 2014 when Dr. Harsh Vardhan, the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, initiated the observance. A committee was formed, and November 7 was designated as the annual day to raise awareness about cancer, its treatment, and the significance of early intervention in improving survival rates.
Types Of Cancer
Common types of cancer include lung, prostate, colorectal, stomach, and liver cancer among men, while women are more commonly affected by breast, colorectal, lung, cervical, and thyroid cancer.
Causes of Cancer
Cancer typically develops as normal cells transform into tumour cells through a multi-stage process, progressing from pre-cancerous conditions to malignant tumours. Lifestyle factors, such as being overweight and having low physical activity, are associated with conditions like breast and colorectal cancer.
How to Prevent Cancer
Preventative measures recommended by WHO to reduce the risk of cancer include avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy body weight, consuming a nutritious diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, engaging in regular physical activity, limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption, receiving vaccinations against HPV and hepatitis B, minimizing exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and tanning devices, ensuring safe and appropriate use of radiation in healthcare, and reducing exposure to outdoor and indoor air pollution.