Credit: Sugandh Khandelwal
World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4, aims to raise awareness and educate people about the prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer, a life-threatening disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer remains the leading cause of death globally, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2022.
The IARC’s 2022 report highlights 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths worldwide, with lung and breast cancer being the most prevalent. Significant disparities in cancer burden and mortality persist between countries with high and low Human Development Index (HDI) rankings.Projections indicate that the annual number of new cancer cases will reach 35 million by 2050, a 77% increase from 2022.
World Cancer Day 2025: Theme
The theme for World Cancer Day 2025, “United by Unique” highlights the importance of personalized, patient-centered care in the fight against cancer. It underscores the need to tailor treatments to the specific needs of each individual. This theme is part of a three-year campaign, running from 2025 to 2027, which will focus on the personal experiences of cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. The initiative aims to foster empathy, compassion, and inclusivity in cancer care while advocating for more individualized treatment approaches.
Why the emphasis on the personal journey of cancer patients?
The “United by Unique” theme for World Cancer Day 2025 emphasizes several key aspects in the fight against cancer. At the heart of this theme is the recognition that each person’s experience with cancer is different. It advocates for a shift towards personalized care, where treatment plans are tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. By considering factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and specific tumor characteristics, healthcare providers can develop more effective, individualized treatment strategies.
It highlights the importance of moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach to cancer care. It stresses the need for advanced technologies, such as genetic testing and targeted therapies, to develop treatments that are customized to the specific challenges of each patient’s cancer. This approach holds the potential for better outcomes and fewer side effects.
By focusing on personal journeys, United by Unique encourages a greater sense of empathy and understanding toward cancer patients and their caregivers. It also advocates for inclusivity in cancer care, ensuring that all patients, regardless of their background, access the same level of quality care. This includes addressing healthcare disparities and ensuring that underrepresented or marginalized communities are not left behind in the fight against cancer.The campaign encourages cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers to share their personal stories, fostering a community of support.
Importance of Early Detection in Unmasking Cancer’s Silent Nature
Cancer is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it can develop and spread without showing clear symptoms in its early stages. By the time noticeable symptoms appear, the disease may have already advanced, making it harder to treat and increasing the risk of severe health complications.Many cancers, such as ovarian, pancreatic, and colon cancer, may not present obvious symptoms in the early stages. By the time symptoms like pain, fatigue, or noticeable lumps occur, the cancer may have already spread to other parts of the body, making treatment more difficult and less effective.
When cancer symptoms do appear, they can often be vague and mistaken for common health issues like fatigue, weight loss, or minor discomfort. These non-specific symptoms can be easily ignored or attributed to other causes, delaying diagnosis. Due to its silent nature, cancer requires proactive measures like regular screening, awareness of risk factors, and early intervention to detect the disease before it becomes life-threatening. Increasing awareness about the importance of routine check-ups and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as quitting smoking, eating nutritious food, and exercising, can significantly improve early detection and outcomes.
Prioritizing Patients Beyond the Disease
People-centered care in cancer is essential because it focuses on treating not just the disease but the overall well-being of the patient. Every cancer journey is unique, and a personalized approach ensures that treatments align with individual medical conditions, genetics, and personal preferences, leading to better outcomes. Emotional and psychological support is equally important, as a cancer diagnosis can bring immense stress and anxiety.
Effective communication between doctors and patients fosters shared decision-making, empowering individuals to take an active role in their treatment. Ensuring accessibility and equity in care is also crucial, as every patient, regardless of their background, should have access to quality treatment and support. A holistic approach that includes pain management, rehabilitation, and palliative care improves the patient’s quality of life beyond medical treatment.
What initiatives has the Indian Cancer Society taken?
ICS conducts nationwide awareness drives to educate people about cancer risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of early detection. These campaigns use digital media, community outreach, and educational programs to spread awareness among different demographics, including schools, colleges, workplaces, and rural communities.To promote early diagnosis, ICS organizes free cancer screening camps for common cancers like breast, cervical, and oral cancer. These camps, often held in collaboration with hospitals and local organizations, help detect cancer at an early stage when treatment is more effective and affordable. ICS provides financial aid, counseling, and rehabilitation services to cancer patients, particularly those from economically weaker backgrounds.
Their Cancer Cure Fund helps underprivileged patients access life-saving treatments. The organization also runs support groups to assist survivors and their families in coping with the emotional and physical impact of cancer.Since tobacco use is a major cause of cancer in India, ICS actively runs anti-tobacco programs to educate the public about its dangers. It conducts workshops, advocacy campaigns, and engages policymakers to promote stricter regulations on tobacco consumption.The Indian Cancer Society collaborates with medical institutions and research organizations to advance cancer studies, improve treatment protocols, and advocate for better healthcare policies. It works closely with the government and healthcare bodies to push for improved cancer care infrastructure and accessibility.
Government Programs for Early Cancer Screening
The Indian government has implemented several initiatives to promote early detection of cancer through screening programs, awareness campaigns, and improved healthcare infrastructure.
National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases & Stroke (NPCDCS): The NPCDCS is a major government initiative that focuses on early detection, screening, and prevention of common cancers like breast, cervical, and oral cancer. Under this program, community health centers and primary healthcare workers conduct regular screenings, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Population-Based Cancer Screening (PBCS):The government has introduced population-based screening for three major cancers—breast, cervical, and oral cancer—at primary healthcare levels. Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and health workers are trained to conduct screenings and educate communities about early symptoms and risk factors.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) – Ayushman Bharat:Under Ayushman Bharat, cancer detection and treatment services are provided at Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs) across India. These centers offer free screenings, early diagnosis, and referrals for further treatment. This initiative ensures that even economically weaker sections have access to timely cancer detection.
National Cancer Grid (NCG):The National Cancer Grid connects over 250 cancer hospitals, research centers, and NGOs to standardize cancer treatment across India. It ensures uniform screening and diagnosis protocols, especially for early-stage cancer detection.
Awareness and Screening Campaigns
The government regularly conducts awareness drives through initiatives like:
- Mukt Bharat (Tobacco-Free India) – Focused on reducing tobacco-related cancers.
- Cervical Cancer Awareness Programs – Encouraging HPV vaccination and regular Pap smear tests.
- Door-to-Door Screening Initiatives – Conducted in collaboration with ASHA workers in rural areas.
National Digital Health Mission (NDHM):The NDHM aims to integrate cancer detection services into digital health records, making it easier for patients to get timely screenings and follow-ups through telemedicine services.
HPV Vaccination for Cervical Cancer Prevention:The government has initiated HPV vaccination programs to prevent cervical cancer, particularly targeting adolescent girls. This is a crucial step in reducing the burden of cervical cancer in India.
Through these programs, the Indian government is actively working to improve early cancer detection, reduce mortality rates, and ensure that every citizen has access to timely and affordable cancer screening and treatment.
