World Cancer Day

Supriya Jain
Dec 22, 2023 By Supriya Jain
Originally Published on Mar 08, 2022
Fact-checked by Naman Khanna
World Cancer Day is a campaign to save lives and reduce deaths of patients through global cancer care.


Where is World Cancer Day celebrated?

World Cancer Day is celebrated all around the world as the day on which the World Cancer Declaration was signed by the leading countries of the world to create awareness of cancer prevention.

Who is World Cancer Day celebrated by?

The United Nations commemorates World Cancer Day. World Cancer Day aims to dispel myths, boost awareness, and reduce the stigma surrounding cancer. On World Cancer Day, a number of actions are held to show support for cancer patients.

When did World Cancer Day first start?

On February 4, 2000, the Union for International Cancer Control first started World Cancer Day in order to ensure that adequate support is offered to the members of the cancer community of the world.

Who started World Cancer Day?

World Cancer Day was started as part of the Charter of Paris Against Cancer which was subsequently signed by the General Director of UNESCO, Kikichir Matsuura. This charter aimed to promote research around the prevention of cancer and also improve the care being provided to patients. The signatures of the General Director rendered this international day an official status.

History And Timeline

As per the information shared by the WHO, different types of cancers are responsible for millions of deaths across the world every year. The World Summit Against Cancer held in 2000 was the event where this international day was established by the leading political leaders from across the world.

Mentioned below are some of the essential aspects related to the history of World Cancer Day.

National Cancer Control Programme

National Cancer Control Programme was started in India in 1975 to bring focus on the cancer treatment facilities that are available in the country. In India, almost two-thirds of cases are reported in the advanced stages, when the chances of treatment have reduced significantly.

1975

Better Prevention And Cure

The Charter of Paris Against Cancer was signed at the initial World Summit Against Cancer which was organized in Paris. The signatories included leaders from cancer organizations and government agencies from across the world.

The document featured 10 articles that highlighted the global commitment and cooperation for improvement of the quality of life of cancer patients and ensure continuous investment in advanced cancer research related to prevention and treatment.

February 4, 2000

Worldwide Effort

World Cancer Day in Nicaragua sparked a worldwide effort to improve access to cancer treatment clinics in the country.

2007

Theme Of The Year

‘Not Beyond Us’ was the theme for World Cancer Day this year.

2015

Moment Of Support

37 towns throughout the world used orange and blue lighting to show their support for the cause of World Cancer Day and create awareness amongst the masses.

2019

Traditions And Customs

The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) is hosting this event. Free cancer screenings, educational discussions about detecting the signs and symptoms of cancer, teaching public health professionals how to detect cancer, and live events on social media are among the events planned for this day.

The Icon Group, a cancer care provider, urges its employees, partners, and loved ones to convey hope through paper butterflies to those who need it most.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate World Cancer Day

If you are in touch with someone who is suffering from cancer, make sure to reach out to them. Do not just call but make a visit to their place and lend a patient ear to their concerns. Make sure you remain in touch with them regularly.

Learn about strategies to lower cancer risk and educate others as well. Spread awareness about cancer and break the myths around the spread of cancer and highlight that it is a non-communicable disease.

Donate to a cancer support group or a cancer research group. You can also volunteer for different events organized on this day.

To raise cancer awareness, wear a lavender ribbon (there are also other colors that represent specific types of cancer).

Facts And Stats

  • World Cancer Day was started as part of the Charter of Paris Against Cancer which was later ratified by UNESCO.
  • World Cancer Day aims to create awareness on the importance of early detection and treatment of cancer through a concerted global campaign, so the disease can be tackled.
  • Every year, a different theme is allocated to World Cancer Day. The theme for World Cancer Day 2021 is 'I Am and I Will'.

What was the theme for World Cancer Day 2021?

The theme for World Cancer Day 2021 was 'I Am and I Will', an uplifting call for the personal commitment that symbolizes the power of our efforts done today to limit cancer’s growing effect.

What is the theme for World Cancer Day 2022?

'Close the Care Gap' is the new World Cancer Day campaign theme for 2022-2024. It is about identifying and overcoming the difficulties that many people throughout the world have in receiving the care they require.

Some people are unable to afford suitable treatment and will therefore have a lower chance of overcoming the disease. The aim of this theme is to close the gap between those who can and cannot receive treatment so that it is available to all.

When is World Cancer Day?

Every year, on February 4, the celebration of World Cancer Day takes place

Why do we celebrate World Cancer Day?

We celebrate World Cancer Day to offer our support to all those who have been diagnosed or know someone with cancer. It highlights the importance of early detection and of receiving adequate treatment.

When was the first time World Cancer Day was celebrated?

World Cancer Day was celebrated for the first time in 2000.

How is World Cancer Day celebrated?

Medical institutes and international organizations aren’t the only ones celebrating World Cancer Day. People, local companies, corporations, and governments join forces to educate the general public on the different types of cancer, how to recognize them, and what treatments and precautions to take if they are detected.

Radio, television, print, and social media are all used to broadcast advertisements and crucial announcements. Fundraisers, luncheons, and banquets are hosted, with notable speakers frequently in attendance.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Tuesday, February 04, 2020
  • Thursday, February 04, 2021
  • Friday, February 04, 2022
  • Saturday, February 04, 2023

We Want Your Photos!
We Want Your Photos!

We Want Your Photos!

Do you have a photo you are happy to share that would improve this article?
Email your photos

More for You

See All

Written by Supriya Jain

Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Business Administration specializing in Marketing

Supriya Jain picture

Supriya JainBachelor of Commerce, Master of Business Administration specializing in Marketing

As a skilled member of the Kidadl team, Shruti brings extensive experience and expertise in professional content writing. With a Bachelor's degree in Commerce from Punjab University and an MBA in Business Administration from IMT Nagpur, Shruti has worked in diverse roles such as sales intern, content writer, executive trainee, and business development consultant. Her exceptional writing skills cover a wide range of areas, including SOP, SEO, B2B/B2C, and academic content.

Read full bio >
Fact-checked by Naman Khanna

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature

Naman Khanna picture

Naman KhannaBachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature

An English literature graduate from Delhi University, Naman's broad interests include mathematics, science, and social science. With his knowledge and expertise in multiple subjects, he is an asset to our fact-checking team. Naman is set to pursue his postgraduate degree in English literature soon.

Read full bio >