The date for the World Cancer Day is on the 4th of February in every year. This day was established by the Union for International Cancer Control back in the year 2000. This is a day strictly for awareness rising, supporting those with cancer disease, and all actions for its prevention and treatments. People globally are joining to share knowledge for early detection while contributing to further research on this disease.
The theme of World Cancer Day 2025 is “Closing the Care Gap,” meaning everyone should get the necessary cancer care irrespective of where they reside or what their background is, because when we know more about cancer and share this knowledge, everyone can unite to fight this disease.
What is Cancer?
Cancer is the growth of abnormal cells that break control. Cells begin growing uncontrollably in their regions of origin. This often produces lumps or tumors and they may go further and spread throughout other body parts. They are capable of growing anywhere, although some of the sites more prone to these abnormalities are found on certain types.
People across the world have observed 4 February each year to commemorate World Cancer Day. The day is commemorated by spreading awareness about cancer, studying it, and finding out how to avoid it. Here in this article, we’ll talk about the top 10 common cancers and ways you can decrease your chances.
Most common cancers and how you can lower risk
Breast cancer
Among women, breast cancer is one of the most prevalent types of cancers. However, there are always ways to decrease the risk of getting it. Maintaining a healthy weight is very important since excess weight may increase the likelihood of cancer. Being active helps keep the body strong and also lowers the risk, such as walking, running, or playing sports.
Too much alcohol can also increase the risk of developing breast cancer, so it’s better to limit it. The most effective way of catching breast cancer early is by getting regular check-ups such as a mammogram. These tests help doctors identify any problems before they get worse. Maintaining your body and getting checked often can help keep you safe and healthy.
Lung cancer
Lung cancer primarily occurs because of smoking, but there are a number of other causes too. Exposure to bad air, smoke from people smoking, and an invisible, toxic gas called radon are the other reasons behind lung cancer. According to Dr. Aditi Agarwal, Associate Director of Radiation Oncology at Max Hospital, Saket, avoidance of smoking is the only preventive measure to minimize the risk.
This means avoiding dangerous chemicals at work such as asbestos and harmful cigarette smoke that damages lungs. Healthy decisions, like keeping clean air within the lungs, help to guard them. Further, with the check-ups coupled with healthy lifestyles, lung cancer is less developed, and a body stays in good condition.
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer occurs more frequently among older men; however, one can reduce its risk. The best way is to have a healthy diet containing a lot of fruits, vegetables, and omega-3-enriched food items, like fish. In addition, the body can remain strong with such food intake, and regular doctor visits are of utmost importance, as they might be able to identify any abnormalities early.
The most important test for prostate cancer is the PSA test, which can detect signs of cancer before it gets worse. According to Dr. Aditi Agarwal, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating less red meat may also reduce the risk. Keeping men healthy as they get older requires making smart choices about food, staying active, and visiting the doctor for check-ups.
Pancreatic cancer
Other causes of cancer include smoking, obesity, and excess lifetime illness known as chronic pancreatitis, which causes inflammation of the pancreas. In addition, a healthy diet that consists of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains lowers the risk of this deadly disease. This would also be highly beneficial if nothing is done for smoking and alcohol consumption since both are hazardous to the body and may increase the risk of cancer.
Although some cancers are linked to family history and genetics, many more can be prevented by healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating the proper foods, exercising regularly, and not smoking or heavy drinking. Routine check-ups with a doctor and earlier screenings and vaccines will allow for the early detection of cancer before it becomes severe.
Liver cancer
There are various factors that may lead to liver cancer, for instance, infections from hepatitis B and C, alcoholism, and extreme overweightness. All these damage the liver with time, thereby risking a cancer case. Vaccination against hepatitis B helps protect the liver as it eliminates the chance of infection. Over-alcohol drinking harms the liver; thus it is supposed to be reduced or done away with altogether.
According to Dr. Aditi Agarwal, one must maintain their weight appropriately and alcohol should be strictly avoided and also develop safe habits in life. Routine visits to a doctor and healthy meals would make the liver strong and strong choices help decrease the risk of getting liver cancer.
Skin cancer
This skin cancer, also known as melanoma, is primarily caused by excessive exposure to the damaging UV rays of the sun. Spending too much time in the sun without adequate protection can damage the skin and lead to a cancerous risk. The sunscreen with a high SPF helps prevent damage to the skin from such harmful rays.
Another danger from tanning beds comes from UV rays emitted from them, almost similar in danger to the sun. According to Dr. Aditi Agarwal, reducing exposure to UV rays using shade, hats, or clothing on the skin will decrease the chance of developing skin cancer. Regular checks to skin parts might be necessary to identify early signs of skin cancer. These steps can ensure the skin is healthy and safe.
Conclusion
Cancer is a dangerous disease, but one’s risk of getting it can be minimized if one takes good health practices. Healthy eating habits, staying active, and not smoking and drinking excessively help minimize the risks. Regular check-ups in the form of mammograms and PSA tests catch cancer early.
Reducing risks also reduces skin damage from the sun, avoiding harmful chemical products, and getting vaccinated. World Cancer Day is the day when awareness, knowledge, and support for each other should be raised. We can live healthier, safer lives by making smart choices and getting regular check-ups.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is World Cancer Day?
World Cancer Day is celebrated every year on February 4th. It is a day to raise awareness about cancer, support people with cancer, and encourage actions for prevention.
What causes cancer?
Cancer occurs when cells in the body grow beyond control. That creates lumps or tumors, and due to this reason, cancer can spread to other areas of the body. Risk factors include smoking, poor diet, and overweight.
How does smoking affect cancer risk?
Smoking is one of the main causes of lung cancer, but it can also increase the risk of many other types of cancer. It’s important to avoid smoking to protect your health.
What is the PSA test?
A PSA is a blood test that helps detect prostate cancer early in men. It can screen for cancer-based signs even before any symptoms develop.
Can I protect myself from skin cancer?
Yes! To protect yourself from skin cancer, avoid staying in the sun too long, wear sunscreen with a high SPF, and avoid tanning beds. Wearing hats and protective clothing can also help.
