Why World Cancer Day matters
Cancer is the second leading cause of death, with a wide ranging impact on familes, loved ones, and communities, on affecting all aspects of a person's life.
In 2022, some 9.6 million people died of cancer, and this is projected to increase to 13.2 million in 2030. Over one million children lose their mother to cancer every year, and 1.4 million lose their father. The global economic cost of cancer from 2020 to 2050 is projected to be USD 25.2 trillion.
Many of these deaths can be avoided with increased governmental support and funding for prevention, early detection and treatment programmes.
Sadly, the greatest increase in cancer is projected to hit low- and middle-income countries, those least equipped to cope with the social and economic impact of the disease.
Unless urgent action is taken to raise awareness about cancer risks, signs and symptoms, and develop practical strategies to address the disease, millions of people will continue to die.
World Cancer Day is the perfect opportunity to spread the word and create a global awareness of the disease in international media and global health and development programmes.
Testimonial
World Cancer Day is the one singular initiative under which the entire world unites to reduce the global cancer burden. It takes place every year on 4 February.
World Cancer Day
United by Unique – Placing people at the centre of care
The World Cancer Day campaign
Last update
Thursday 14 November 2024