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National Cancer Awareness Day is observed every year on November 7 in India. The day aims to raise awareness about the importance of early cancer detection, prevention and treatment. This day was started in 2014 and it serves as a reminder of the growing prevalence of cancer. The World Health Organisation (WHO) says that cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. It accounted for nearly 10 million deaths in 2022 which is nearly one in six deaths.

Around one-third of deaths from cancer are due to tobacco use, high body mass index, alcohol consumption, low fruit and vegetable intake and lack of physical activity. Therefore, it is important to prioritise regular health screenings, adopt a healthy lifestyle, and reduce exposure to carcinogens like tobacco and pollution. Here, take a look at the date, theme, history and significance of National Cancer Awareness Day.

National Cancer Awareness Day is observed on November 7 in India every year. On this day, healthcare organisations, government agencies and non-profit groups come together to organise awareness campaigns, seminars and screenings to mark the day and work towards reducing the burden of cancer across the nation.

National Cancer Awareness Day was announced in India on November 7, 2014, by former Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan. It was established to highlight the importance of early detection and awareness in fighting cancer which has become a major public health issue in the country.

The date was chosen to honour the legacy of Nobel laureate Madame Curie whose groundbreaking research on radioactivity led to advances in cancer treatment. National Cancer Awareness Day aims to address the increasing cancer burden in India by encouraging the public to undergo regular screenings and understand the lifestyle factors that increase the risk of cancer.

The day holds immense significance as it focuses on spreading information about cancer prevention, early detection and treatment options. In India, where cancer cases are increasing, the day serves as a reminder to take steps in managing one’s health. The day also emphasizes the role of lifestyle choices in cancer prevention, encouraging people to adopt healthier habits, avoid tobacco, limit alcohol and undergo regular screenings.

By raising awareness, the day aims to reduce the stigma surrounding cancer and increase public understanding of the disease which helps in identifying symptoms early and undergoing timely treatment.

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