World Cancer Day: Theme, awareness, inspirational quotes

New Delhi: World Cancer Day is observed on 4th February every year to spread awareness, inspire change and reduce the global impact of cancer. Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally.

It is important to understand each type of cancer and how it impacts the body. At a time when advanced treatments are available and the disease is entirely curable, this data is alarming, say, oncologists.

According to a study, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in India, also cervical cancer contributes around 6-29 per cent of cancers in women in India. But at the same time, another study says that over 50,000 cervical cancer cases can be prevented in India by 2050.

World Cancer Day 2021 Theme

The theme for World Cancer Day 2021 is ‘I Am and I Will.’ It is a multi-year campaign that began in 2019 and this year will mark the last year. It represents an empowering call-to-action urging personal commitment, and also represents the power of action taken now to have a positive impact on the future. It focuses on ‘together, all our actions matter.’

History

World Cancer Day was originated at the first World Summit Against Cancer in 2000. It was held in Paris and was founded by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC).

According to a report of the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 out of 10 Indians develop cancer and almost 16 million cases of the disease are registered annually. Meanwhile, globally 1 out of 6 people lose their lives due to cancer every year.

Causes of cancer

There is not a solid cause for developing cancer. But we need to maintain and safeguard ourselves from certain factors like toxic lifestyle habits to reduce the risk of cancer. Take a look at some of the most common things which increase the chances of developing cancer:

• Tobacco: Nicotine found in tobacco can increase your risk of cancer.
• Foods: Foods which have added preservatives, pesticides and other harmful ingredients causes the risk of cancer. Try to avoid such foods as much as possible.
• Genes: Some types of cancers are hereditary, like breast cancer. If you have genes running in your family which are faulty, it might cause cancer. Never miss your routine check-ups and full-body tests.
• Environmental toxins: Exposure to toxic substances like arsenic, benzene, asbestos and more can be dangerous.
• Radiation: Radiation may disassemble atoms and cause DNA damage in cells which can cause severe disease like cancer. Talk with your doctor if you think you may be at risk for cancer because you were exposed to radiation.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Leading a lifestyle with little or no physical activity can lead to chronic disease such as cancer. Smartphones are making this generation lazy and inactive. Set a particular time to use it, and focus on physical activities like exercise, dance, aerobics etc. The unhealthy diet also plays a major role in the futuristic formation of cancer.

Symptoms of cancer

Since there are several types of cancers, the symptoms of each one of them vary. However, there are certain types of cancers which have generic signs which are prominent enough for you to point out. Take a look:

• Sudden weight loss
• Extreme fatigue
• Lump
• Changes in bowel and bladder functioning
• Severe skin changes
• Acute pain

Regular health check-ups and early detection of cancer is the only way possible to fight and win against this deadly disease. It is always best to consult with an expert and take advice and help at the right time.

Inspirational quotes by cancer survivors

• “Working out is my way of saying to cancer, ‘You’re trying to invade my body; you’re trying to take me away from my daughters, but I’m stronger than you. And I’m going to hit harder than you.” – Stuart Scott
• “Cricket is my life. Before the cancer, I was happy-go-lucky. I used to think about my career and worry about the future. But post it, my thinking has completely changed. I’m happy to eat and breathe normally. I’m happy to have my life back.” – Yuvraj Singh
• “There’s no one way to tell how our experiences change us or shape us. Not all transformations are visible. What I’ve learnt is to never let it hold me back. I’d rather dress up and show up!” –Sonali Bendre
• “The first step to fight cancer is to be happy. I feel when it comes to fighting cancer, 50 percent cure can be attributed to medication and another 50 percent to will power.” – Anurag Basu
• “Cancer opens many doors. One of the most important is your heart.” – Greg Anderson
• “I think cancer came into my life as a gift. My vision is sharper, my mind clearer, my perspective realigned. I have succeeded in transforming my passive-aggressive anger and anxiety into more peaceful expressions.” – Manisha Koirala
• “Time is shortening. But every day that I challenge this cancer and survive is a victory for me.” – Ingrid Bergman