Cancer Awareness and its achievements

Cancer is not just one disease but it is a group of diseases which involves abnormal growth of cells with the capability to invade and spread to other parts of the body. It is the second leading cause of death just after the deaths from the heart diseases. Till now, there are over 100 different types of cancer has been diagnosed. Thus, the need for public awareness of cancer and encouraging people for positive health behavioral changes is the important aspects of cancer control.

Objectives of Cancer Awareness Programs:

Every year, 4^th February is celebrated as the World Cancer Day to encourage people across the world to show support and unite for cancer awareness. There are also many governments as well as Non-government organizations (NGOs) that work throughout the year for cancer awareness, prevention and treatment and to raise funds for the patients in need.

Through various programmes and workshops, these organizations aim to:

• Increase the knowledge of cancer, screening, and the importance of early diagnosis by mass awareness,
• Understand the different lifestyle choices that influence the risk of developing cancer,
• Have an awareness and understanding of common attitudes towards cancer, including fear and fatalism,
• Be aware of the services and support available to people, nationally and locally.

Achievements and Outcomes:

Over the past few decades, the overall rate of cancer deaths has been declining about 1.5% annually in both the male and female. The cancer incidence rate has been stable in females (with the awareness about breast cancer and cervical cancer screening and diagnosis) while in males, it has been declining steadily (largely due to the decrease in prostate cancer).   For both the sexes, the rate of lung cancer is also dropping gradually, reflecting the decrease in tobacco use and adopting healthy lifestyles.

But there is still a significant room for improvement as there is still some cancer driven risk factors. While the rate of lung cancer through tobacco use has been declining, this is still the major cause of cancer death which can be addressed only through education. Similarly, more effective screening and early treatments and symptoms are needed to be addressed.conferencedirectory