On 4 February, we took action to close the gap in cancer care

On 4 February 2022, the wider health community and other concerned organisations joined the cancer community to give voice to all those who face barriers to accessing the health services they need.  

The World Cancer Day 2022 Impact Report shows the incredible reach of the campaign and the inspiring actions that were taken around the world to raise awareness about the lack of equity in health and the need to break down the barriers to access and close the care gap.

The numbers reveal a groundswell of enthusiasm, with #WorldCancerDay trending globally on Twitter, and 3750,000 social media posts shared, including at the highest level of government. Over 94,000 campaign materials on closing the care gap were downloaded and over 24,000 press articles in 160 countries and 69 languages helped generate discussions around the campaign theme.

The reach and impact of World Cancer Day are not just measured in numbers. The Day sparked powerful conversations and inspired thousands of activities in over 100 countries by research centres, hospitals, patient groups and other grassroots as well as civil society organisations, which connected communities and helped raise awareness about equity in cancer care. Many governments around the world chose this occasion to announce a higher priority and more investments for cancer control.

“UICC is delighted by the incredible engagement shown by its members and partners, as well as by health organisations, businesses, leaders, governments around the world and individuals from all walks of life. UICC also thanks its partners, as well as its members for sharing their thoughts and insights in the World Cancer Day Survey, which will help us better shape the campaign for next year.”
–    Janine Huguenin, UICC Campaign Manager for World Cancer Day

The World Cancer Day Impact Report offers a glimpse of the global engagement to close the equity gap in cancer care, highlighting activities by UICC members, partners and network organisations as well as government commitments.

This collective global effort by organisations and individuals has led to a greater awareness of cancer, improved education and strengthened the political will to work towards a healthier world where millions of lives are saved from cancer.   

Together, the cancer community can be proud of the significant impact it achieved once again on World Cancer Day.