Since the year 2000, people across the globe have been celebrating humanity’s advancements in the battle against cancer. Not only do we celebrate but on this day we also spread awareness about the dangers involved with the disease. As well as causes and how to minimise the risk of developing cancer. For World Cancer Day 2022 inform yourself and those around you on the prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer.
The History of World Cancer Day
In 1993 a membership-based society formed the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). With the goal of advancing medical research and working towards the elimination of cancer. And in the same year, the UICC alongside several cancer societies and treatment centers celebrated the very first International Cancer Day.
Then in 2000, at the first World Summit Against Cancer members of cancer organizations and prominent government leaders from around the world gathered to make World Cancer Day Official. As part of this event, designated officials signed a document called the Charter of Paris Against Cancer. In which they agreed to a global commitment to improving the facilitation and quality of life of cancer patients. As well as increased investment in researching, preventing, and treating cancer.
What Causes Cancer?
The World Cancer Day website reminds us: “Cancers can be caused by a number of different factors and, as with many other illnesses, most cancers are the result of exposure to a number of different causal factors. It is important to remember that, while some factors cannot be modified, around one-third of cancer cases can be prevented by reducing behavioural and dietary risks.”
We can put emphasis on elements such as:
- Alcohol consumption
- Contact and consumption of carcinogens, such as smoking
- Nutrition and diets. Excessive consumption of certain foods will increase a person’s risk
- Lack of physical activity
- Weakened immune systems
What the Different Cancer Ribbon Colours Mean
Many awareness campaigns have adopted the ribbon as a symbol of support. Each chooses the colour they feel is most appropriate for them. However, this does mean that each colour ribbon could have multiple meanings. But here is a list of what each colour represents specifically within cancer awareness campaigns. you can either pick the colour you would like to represent or simple wear a lilac ribbon to support all forms of cancer fighters during the 2022 World Cancer Day.
- Pink: Breast cancer
- Orange or Green: Kidney cancer
- Teal: Uterine or Ovarian cancers
- Light Blue: Prostate cancer
- Dark Blue: Colon cancer
- Purple: Pancreatic cancer
- White: Bone or Lung cancers
- Black: Skin cancer