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World Cancer Day is a global observance held on February 4th each year to raise awareness about cancer and promote action toward its prevention, detection, and treatment. The theme of “Awareness is Key” emphasizes the importance of informed communities in combating cancer says by “Dr Shivali Ahlawat, Director – Technical Operations, Oncquest Laboratories Ltd. Gurugram”.
Misinformation, fear, and stigma often delay diagnosis and treatment, but by fostering open discussions about cancer symptoms, risk factors, and prevention, individuals can be empowered to take proactive steps toward their health. With advancements in early detection and preventive measures, World Cancer Day serves as a call to action for everyone—governments, organizations, and individuals—to join forces in the fight against cancer.
The theme for this World Cancer Day 2025, “United by Unique,” emphasises the importance of person centric approach in the fight against cancer The diagnosis of cancer and its treatment is a journey of overcoming pain with strength, resilience, healing and compassion, says by Dr Shivali Ahlawat.
Explaining it further the doctor says, “The importance of empathy, love and support for the person behind the disease cannot be over emphasised. While medical advancements continue to push the boundaries of treatment and survival rates, the battle against cancer cannot be left to scientists and doctors alone. It is a collective responsibility of the community, policymakers, and organisations to create a supportive ecosystem for prevention, early detection, and treatment.”
Awareness is one of the most crucial aspects of community involvement because misinformation, fear, and stigma often hinder timely diagnosis and treatment. However, by encouraging conversations around symptoms, risk factors, and preventive measures, communities can empower individuals to take proactive steps toward their health, shares Dr Shivali Ahlawat.
The doctor adds, “With scientific advancements in diagnostics, cancer can now be detected in its early stages, which is the most crucial factor in cancer care. Moreover, workplaces and local organisations should integrate cancer education programs, focusing on lifestyle modifications such as healthy eating, regular exercise, and tobacco cessation as the most potent preventive measures.”
Further, to strengthen preventive measures, governments and local health organisations must collaborate to implement widespread vaccination programs, particularly for cancers linked to infections, such as cervical cancer (HPV vaccine) and liver cancer (Hepatitis B vaccine). Also, promoting routine screenings, such as mammograms and pap smears/HPV testing, can significantly improve early detection rates, leading to better treatment outcomes.
