Know Everything about National Cancer Awareness Day

National Cancer Awareness Day

National Cancer Awareness Day is celebrated on November 7, every year in India to create more awareness about the disease and how we can detect it early.

Cancer patients in India every year

According to the latest reports, 1.1 million new cancer cases are registered in India every year, out of which two-thirds are reported at an advanced stage.

History of National Cancer Awareness Day

National Cancer Awareness Day was kickstarted by Dr Harsh Vardhan, the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare in India in September 2014. A committee was formed and November 7 was designated as the day for annual observance aiming to inform and educate masses about cancer.

Why Cancer awareness is important?

Cancer awareness is very important in India as the major cause of late detection in most cancer patients is illiteracy and less awareness. Because In India, half of the cancer cases are reported at a later stage. This is the reason why the death rates are higher.

Early symptoms and signs

Some general signs and symptoms of cancer are Fatigue, lump, weight changes, persistent cough, trouble in breathing, difficulty in swallowing, bleeding, and night sweats.

What are the causes?

Cancer is caused by changes to the DNA within cells. The DNA inside a cell is packaged into a large number of individual genes, each of which contains a set of instructions telling the cell what functions to perform, as well as how to grow and divide. Errors in the instructions can cause the cell to stop its normal function and may allow a cell to become cancerous.

Risk factors

While doctors have an idea of what may increase your risk of cancer. Factors known to increase your risk of cancer include are your age, habits, family history, health conditions, and environment.

Prevention

Doctors have identified several ways to reduce your risk of cancer such as by stop smoking, avoid excessive sun exposure, eat a healthy diet, exercise most days of the week, by maintaining a healthy weight, and avoid alcohol.