Introduction:
Taking place every year on 4 February, the World Cancer Day is the singular initiative under which the entire world can unite together in the fight against the global cancer epidemic. This initiative aims to prevent millions of preventable deaths annually by raising awareness among individuals and governments about cancer, in addition to debunking common myths misconceptions about the disease.
This year’s theme «I Am and I Will» means that anyone can reduce the impact of cancer for himself, the people around him, and for the whole world.
Facts:
- Cancer is one of the most common diseases worldwide.
- Globally, nearly 1 in 6 deaths is due to cancer.
- Around one-third of deaths from cancer are due to leading behavioral and dietary risks: high body mass index, low fruit and vegetable intake, lack of physical activity, tobacco use, and alcohol use.
- In Saudi Arabia, breast cancer is the most common cancer among females, while colon cancer is most common among males.
Official Date:
Monday, February 4th, 2019.
Objectives:
- Reduce premature deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by 25% by 2025.
- Educate communities about cancer diseases and means to prevent them.
- Encourage early detection and preventive vaccines, as well as raising awareness of their importance.
- Emphasize that solutions are possible and available, and we as individuals, government and non-governmental institutions and agencies can provide means of support, awareness and prevention of cancer.
Theme: (2019-2021):
«I Am and I Will»