World Cancer Day is the singular initiative under which UICC (Union for International Cancer Control), its members partners, supporters and the entire world can unite in the fight against the global cancer epidemic.
With cancer prevention at the heart of the World Cancer Day campaigns, this year´s World Day, 04 February 2013, is themed ‘Cancer – did you know´. Focusing on Target 5 of the World Cancer Declaration: Dispel damaging myths and misconceptions about Cancer, the overarching aim is to better share actual cancer facts and dismiss misconceptions around the disease.
From a global level, Word Cancer Day 2013 is focusing its messaging on the following four myths:
· Myth 1: Cancer is just a health issue
Truth: Cancer is not just a health issue. It has wide-reaching social, economic, development, and human rights implications.
· Myth 2: Cancer is a disease of the wealthy, elderly and developed countries
Truth: Cancer does not discriminate. It is a global epidemic, affecting all ages, with low- and middle-income countries bearing a disproportionate burden.
· Myth 3: Cancer is a death sentence
Truth: Many cancers that were once considered a death sentence can now be cured and for many more people their cancer can now be treated effectively.
· Myth 4: Cancer is my fate
Truth: With the right strategies, more than one in every three cancers can be prevented.
To find out more, get involved, spread the message and support the cause by signing the World Cancer Declaration “for a cancer free world” visit: www.worldcancerday.org.
