World Cancer Research Day 2024: pioneering innovations for global health equity

World Cancer Research Day  is marked every year on 24 September and seeks to raise awareness of the importance of cancer research as a key driver of advances in prevention and therapeutic strategies that increase survival and reduce the global cancer burden.

This year, World Cancer Research Day focuses on the importance of innovation under the motto “Innovation In Cancer Research Drives Progress Toward Health Equity”. 

​Innovation is essential across the whole cancer research continuum from prevention and screening to early detection, diagnosis or treatment. 

From policy making to technology transfer, all possible facets of innovation help bring research results closer to people living with cancer thus improving survivorship and quality of life and contributing to achieving health equity worldwide.

The World Cancer Congress in Geneva, 17-19 September, featured several sessions on the latest innovations in cancer care, notably how the use of artificial intelligence is revolutionising cancer care by enhancing early detection and diagnosis, enabling more accurate and timely interventions.

Congress also spotlighted various innovations aimed at closing the equity gap in cancer care, including digital health solutions, molecular diagnostic technologies that enhance pathology services, and the development of apps to reduce the psychosocial impact of cancer testing.

 For more information about the World Research Day campaign and social media content