Published in News
Cancer is responsible for more than eight million annual deaths worldwide and for more than 161,000 deaths in the UK alone.
ven more startling, 14.1 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year, and recent studies suggest that almost half of all individuals born after 1960 will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetime. Such a high prevalence leads researchers to believe that cancer could someday be responsible for more than 47 trillion in economic costs worldwide—a sum equivalent to more than 75% of the world’s GDP.
These disturbing statistics cannot even scratch the surface of the true cost of cancer, as the pain, anxiety, and torment countless individuals must endure because of either their own cancer diagnosis or that of a loved one cannot be quantified.
Unfortunately, the risk of developing cancer is rising at an alarming rate. In response to this onslaught of disease, the Paris Charter aims to promote research to find a cure, prevent cancer, and improve patient surveys. To increase the worldwide awareness of Cancer and encourage everyone to join the cause, 4th February was declared World Cancer Day. From today until World Cancer Day 2018 the “we can, I can” campaign will illustrate how everyone can do their part to reduce the weight cancer places on society. By working together and individually, we can save lives, protect loved ones, and better our community. Here at the Global Alliance for Chronic Disease, we hope to help the cause by organising future international, collaborative research projects focused on various forms of cancer.
Get involved
There are countless ways to get involved today and make a lasting difference in the fight against cancer. Individuals can participate in the Talking Hands’ social media campaign to spread awareness, help disseminate information in the workplace, donate to cancer research, wear a “unity band” in support of the cause, or tweet using #WorldCancerDay #WeCanICan #WeWillUnite. They can also work to decrease their own cancer risk by exercising, eating fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, and drinking less alcohol. Corporations, on the other hand, can provide their employees with information, partner with World Cancer Day, join the Thunderclap campaign, or plan a special activity for the map of impact. Regardless of what you choose to do, every action has an impact.
Since the “we can, I can” campaign is a three year initiative, it encourages everyone to act not just on World Cancer Day, but every day. Together, we can beat cancer.
For more information please see: www.worldcancerday.org