‘Cancer‘ is not just a specific disease, but according to the World Health Organization, it is amongst the top causes of death these days. This is because individuals suffering from cancer have their cells abnormally dividing. There are many causes for it as it affects people worldwide in different ways. Therefore, cancer has become a global issue.
That is the reason why each year, on the fourth of February, the entire world stands united, raising public awareness regarding the disease. They also aim to reduce the myths regarding it. The impact of World Cancer Day also helps to enhance the medical facilities regarding the condition. The privileged ones even come forward to help the needy.
The United Nations observes world Cancer. And the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) leads the event. There have been different themes since the beginning of Cancer Day each year. However, one particular theme is continued and followed up for the next three years. For example, in 2022, the theme of Cancer Day is “Close the Care Gap.” This is a multi-year campaign. That is why the theme will continue for the next three years, i.e., from 2022 to 2024. The topic is on the floor for three consecutive years now, and it has more opportunities for exposure and enhancement.
This theme mainly focuses on the inequalities in cancer treatment all across the globe. The main aim of this theme is to bring to the limelight that particular class of cancer suffering people who die due to cancer because of their economic background. These people do not get proper cures and care because they do not have enough money for their medication. And cancer treatment is not cheap. This unevenness is why so many people are losing their lives due to cancer. Therefore, the 2022 theme circles around the disparity crisis in cancer care.
It is heartbreaking to see the mortality rate rising and people losing their lives. But unfortunately, there are still such segments of society who are not aware of cancer and its threats. They might be suffering from it, but they have no idea about it while going through such a dangerous disease. Moreover, these people are mostly uneducated and come from a lower economic background. Therefore, it makes it even harder for them to survive and fight for their lives. Some have to choose between treating themselves and filling their children’s stomachs. It is a severe problem globally and not just in a particular region. That is why it is important to spread as much awareness as possible. It is essential to educate people regarding cancer and its perils. Then, those with enough means could reach out to the needy and help them.
If you can’t help them financially, you could make an effort to help them gain more knowledge regarding the concern. For example, tell them about the risk factors like the use of Tobacco, excessive consumption of alcohol, not following a balanced diet, and lack of physical activity. Public interactions and campaigning regarding these factors can reduce a lot of cancer patients, or at least their mortality rate.
Doctors can cure cancer if the treatment begins early and identifies it at an initial stage. Spreading the word about the symptoms and signs of cancer could be a great help. People might realize that there is something wrong with them, and they would go for a check-up. And in this way, identification of their disease can be made.
Every gesture, each effort, no matter big or small, will take us to reduce cancer. And if we sincerely work towards our goal, we might even be able to remove this disease forever from our lives.
If we remove this discrimination and inequality, we put in efforts little by little; I bet we can close this care gap. Then, everyone will get equal treatment, and no one will die because of treatment inequality.