World Cancer Awareness Day 2020

February, commonly associated with Valentine’s Day, is also National Cancer Prevention month, and February 4 is World Cancer Day. Its primary focus is to raise awareness and encourage people to talk, read, and learn about cancer, its treatment and prevention. According to the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), the year 2020 marks the midway point of the three year “I Am and I Will” campaign. The “I Am and I Will” theme encourages people to assert who they are and what they will do to reduce the negative impacts of cancer. The goal for all of us is to ensure that fewer people develop cancer, more people are successfully treated, and that there is a better quality of life for people during treatment and beyond. Individuals are encouraged to take action such as eating healthy and being active, wearing sunscreen, avoiding tobacco, and engaging in life-saving vaccines and screenings.
The American Cancer Society is partnering with organizations globally to prevent cancer worldwide. ACS states, “Our vision is to eliminate preventable cancers through high impact cancer prevention initiatives, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where the burden of cancer deaths are highest.” Two current global initiatives that emphasize highly effective and underused strategies for cancer prevention are tobacco taxation and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination.
So, join the movement and unite with countries around the world to raise awareness about cancer in an active, positive way. Treat your sweetheart to a special Valentine’s gift this month. Beyond the box of candy or floral bouquet, make a date to cook a healthy meal together, go for a hike with the kids, make an appointment for that screening your loved one has been putting off. Be creative in celebrating the things we can do to help stay cancer-free. Even post your World Cancer Day healthy living activities on the ACS Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ACSSantaClaritaValleyOffice. On World Cancer Day, celebrate who you are and what you will do.
For more information visit cancer.org or contact the SCV ACS office at 661-298-0886 option 3.