World Cancer Day (WCD) is observed annually on February 4 across the globe to raise awareness of fundamental cancer issues and promote efforts in prevention, detection, and treatment.
- WCD is an international campaign that serves to honor those impacted by cancer and drive actions that can shape a better future for cancer care.
Theme 2025:
i.The campaign theme of WCD 2025-2027 is “United by Unique,” emphasizes the importance of personalized, patient-centered care in the battle against cancer.
- It highlights the need to tailor treatments to the individual needs of each patient, recognizing that every cancer journey is unique.
ii.This 3-year campaign will center on the personal experiences of cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers.
Background:
i.On February 4 1999, the ‘Charter of Paris’ consisting of 10 articles, was adopted at the World Summit Against Cancer for the New Millennium in Paris, France.
ii.Under Article X, WCD was officially proclaimed to be observed annually on February 4.
- The first-ever WCD was observed on February 4 2000.
- February 4 2025 marks 25 years of signing the Charter of Paris Against Cancer.
iii.The Charter of Paris emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in addressing these challenges, reinforcing the idea that collective global action is essential in the fight against cancer.
iv.WCD is an initiative led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), established in 2000 to bring together and support the cancer community globally.
What is Cancer?
i.Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth which occurs in any organ of the body and spread of abnormal cells through the blood and lymphatic systems.
ii.Common types include lung, breast, prostate, colorectal, and skin cancer, with lung cancer being the deadliest worldwide due to its high mortality rate.
Cancer Ribbon:
i.A lavender ribbon is universally recognized as a symbol of support for individuals battling all forms of cancer.
ii.The official colors of WCD are blue and orange, symbolizing hope, solidarity, and action in the fight against cancer.
WHO Report:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO):
i.The South-East Asia Region reported 2.4 million new cancer cases in 2022, including 56,000 cases in children, and 1.5 million deaths.
ii.Among all WHO regions, South-East Asia has the highest incidence of lip and oral cavity cancers, uterine cervix cancers, and childhood cancers.
- The region has seen the fastest rate of decline in tobacco use, a major risk factor for several high-burden cancers.
iii.It is estimated that by 2050, the number of new cancer cases and deaths in the region will increase by 85%.
iv.Cancer services are included in health benefit packages in only 6 countries, and cervical cancer screening coverage is below the 70% target in 7 countries.
v.Bhutan completed a successful Health Flagship project in 2020, where over 90% of target populations were screened for gastric, cervical, and breast cancer.
vi.WHO is addressing these challenges through the WHO South-East Asia Regional Strategy for Comprehensive Cancer Prevention and Management (2024-2030), which emphasizes a people-centered approach.
Note: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) headquartered in Lyon, France is the cancer agency of WHO.
About Union for International Cancer Control (UICC):
UICC has over 1,150 member organisations in 172 countries and territories.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)– Dr Cary Adams
Headquarters– Geneva, Switzerland
Established– 1933
