People around the world are getting ready to take part in activities on February 4th to raise awareness of cancer prevention and access to treatment and care.

The theme of this year's World Cancer Day, "Close the Care Gap" is a call to action to raise awareness about the disparities in cancer treatment. It is important to understand the kind of disparities and barriers to equity, some of which are gender norms, disparities for minority populations, socioeconomic status, the rural-urban divide, refugee status and forced displacement and stigma. 

Did you know? 

The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) has created a fact sheet that summarises some of the statistics on inequity in access to cancer care and what it means for people living with cancer.

• Cancer kills nearly 10 million people a year and some 70% of those are aged 65 or older, yet older populations face disproportionate barriers to effective treatment.
• In refugee populations, cancer is more likely to be diagnosed at an advanced stage, leading to worse outcomes!

You can find out more at worldcancerday.org/key-issues. 

Ways to get involved

February 4th will also see the World Cancer Day 21 Day Challenge! It takes about 21 days to create a new habit. This year, consider committing to improving your health, helping to eliminate cervical cancer, educating yourself and speaking out about the inequities that exist in access to cancer services by adding one small action each day. Sign up to receive daily inspiration and practical guidance as you challenge yourself to make impact through small but meaningful actions!

Join the conversation:

Share why you want to #CloseTheCareGap in cancer care and post it on your social media channels! 

Share your voice!

Show your friends, family, colleagues and networks why you’re supporting World Cancer Day by sharing your personal message through a World Cancer Day customised poster! 

Map of activity

Why not share your events/activities in preparation for the day on the Map of Activity. You can upload and find other events here: worldcancerday.org/map.