World Cancer Day is recognized around the globe on February 4 to unite the international community in a shared day of awareness. “United by Unique” is the 2025-2027 theme, placing people and their unique stories at the heart of the conversation. The 2022-2024 theme, “Close the Care Gap,” highlighted the need for equitable access to healthcare, specifically related to cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. The three-year campaign was inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting significant health disparities worldwide and the need to ensure all individuals can access care. This year, the campaign reinforces that no one is alone in the aim to take meaningful and lasting action against cancer.
Cancer remains a global health challenge, responsible for nearly one in six deaths in 2020, according to the World Health Organization. However, significant progress has been made in the fight against this disease. Over the past decade, the cancer death rate has steadily declined by 1.7% per year, reflecting advancements in prevention, early detection and treatment. For the latest insights on cancer trends and ongoing progress, explore the American Cancer Society’s 2025 Cancer Facts & Figures publication.
So, what can you do to lessen your risk of cancer? Practice practical preventive habits year-round! Some great examples of preventive habits are following a healthy lifestyle by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and alcohol, practicing sun safety, and getting the appropriate cancer screenings to support early detection. Knowing your family history and discussing any concerns with your primary care physician is also important.
