World Cancer Day 2023

Tags: Important Days

World Cancer Day is observed every year on 4 February to create awareness about cancer as a public health issue and strengthen action towards improving quality care, screening, early detection and treatment.

An overview of the news

  • The theme for 2023 is 'Close the Care Gap'

  • This theme is about understanding the disparities in cancer care and taking action to make the progress needed to address them.

  • Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has appealed for people's cooperation to strengthen the global fight against cancer.

  • The central government is working to ensure early detection and affordable treatment of cancer through Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana and several other initiatives.

  • So far, a total of 17 crore 44 lakh oral cancer tests, 8 crore 27 lakh breast cancer tests and 5 crore 66 lakh cervical cancer tests have been done at these centres.

Background of the day

  • World Cancer Day originated in the year 2000 at the first World Summit against Cancer which was held in Paris (France).

  • At this summit, many leaders from government agencies and cancer organizations around the world signed the Charter of Paris Against Cancer.

  • It contained a 10-article document that outlined a cooperative global commitment to improving the quality of life for cancer patients and investing in and advancing cancer research, prevention, and treatment.

  • Article X of the Charter formally declared 4 February as World Cancer Day.

What is cancer?

  • Cancer is a disease in which certain cells of the body grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body.

  • Cancer can start in any part of the human body, which is made up of trillions of cells.

  • The disease spreads throughout the body through a process called cell division.


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