New Delhi: World Cancer Day is marked on February 4 every year. Cancer is considered to be one of the world’s leading causes of death and the threat is growing. Even though all cancers can be treated, many can be prevented or cured.
In a shocking statistic shared by WHO, it was revealed that an estimated 20 million people were diagnosed with cancer in 2021 and 10 million people died because of it.
World Cancer Day 2022: History, Significance, And Messages To Share
To raise awareness about the deadly disease and its symptoms, World Cancer Day is observed globally on the 4th of February. Led by the Union for International Cancer Control, the day tries to create a discussion and allow for prompt action and life-saving treatment for everyone suffering from the disease.
World Cancer Day 2022 Theme: ‘Close The Care Gap’
Each year a theme is set to mark World Cancer Day and the theme for World Cancer Day 2022 is 'Close the Care Gap'. The significance of the theme lies behind the fact that like so many other diseases, cancer care also reflects the saddening inequalities and inequities of the world.
According to WHO, comprehensive cancer treatment is available in more than 90% of high-income countries but in low-income countries, it accounts for less than 15%.
WHO said that fortunately there is awareness and its efforts are focussed on breast cancer which is now the most common cancer; cervical cancer, which can be significantly eliminated; and the child cancer.
It further said, in departmental news published on the website, “The focus for each of these initiatives is low- and middle-income countries, where the biggest public health gains are to be made.”