World unites on Cancer Day to push prevention, equity and action

Today (4 February), the world marks World Cancer Day, a moment to highlight the scale of a disease that affects millions of lives and to reaffirm a shared global commitment to prevention, care and equity.

First observed in 2000 following the signing of the Charter of Paris Against Cancer, the day was established to strengthen international cooperation and to underline the importance of sustained investment in research, prevention and treatment.

Cancer remains one of the most formidable health challenges of the 21st century. According to estimates from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), nearly 20 million new cancer cases were diagnosed worldwide in 2022, and approximately 9.7 million people died from the disease that year.

These figures demonstrate not only the widespread impact of cancer but also the urgent need for sustained global action.

World Cancer Day's theme covering 2025 to 2027, "United by Unique", places people; their experiences, needs and stories, at the centre of the fight against cancer, emphasising that while the disease is universal, each person's journey is distinct.

Experts also highlight significant opportunities to reduce the burden of cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that between 30% and 50% of cancers are preventable through risk-reducing measures such as reducing tobacco use, promoting healthier diets and physical activity, and strengthening early diagnosis.

In addition, a recent global analysis by WHO suggests that nearly four in ten cancer cases worldwide are linked to modifiable risk factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity and environmental exposures.

On this World Cancer Day, the message from health leaders is clear: awareness must translate into action, and collective global effort can make a measurable difference in reducing the toll of cancer for present and future generations.