National Cancer Awareness Day- 7th November

🌼 National Cancer Awareness Day 2025

Every year on November 7, India observes National Cancer Awareness Day to spread awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention of cancer. This day is not just a date on the calendar — it’s a reminder to take charge of our health, to educate others, and to show compassion toward those battling this disease.

🌸 History and Background

National Cancer Awareness Day was first announced in 2014 by Dr. Harsh Vardhan, India’s then Union Health Minister. The date — November 7 — was chosen to commemorate the birth anniversary of Madam Marie Curie, the renowned Polish-French scientist who discovered radium and polonium. Her pioneering research in radioactivity laid the foundation for radiotherapy, one of the most common treatments for cancer today.

🎯 Purpose of the Day

The main goal of National Cancer Awareness Day is to educate people about the early signs, symptoms, and preventive measures for cancer. It also aims to reduce stigma, encourage regular screenings, and support cancer survivors who inspire others with their strength.

The day also focuses on encouraging people to go for free cancer screenings offered at government hospitals and health centers. By promoting awareness, the government hopes to detect cancer in its earlier stages, where treatment is most effective. 

Common Types in India: Breast, cervical, oral, lung, stomach, and colorectal cancers

Annual Cases in India: Over 14 lakh new cases reported

Global Burden: Cancer is responsible for nearly 1 in 6 deaths worldwide

💡 Why Cancer Awareness Matters

• Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and in India, millions of people are diagnosed with some form of cancer every year.

• Early detection can make a life-saving difference — the sooner cancer is found, the higher the chance of successful treatment.

• Awareness helps people recognize early warning signs like unusual lumps, sudden weight loss, unexplained bleeding, or persistent pain.

• It also helps fight the fear and misconceptions that often surround the disease.

🍎 Ways to Prevent Cancer

Though not all cancers are preventable, many can be avoided through healthy lifestyle choices:

1. 🚭 Avoid Tobacco: Tobacco use is the leading cause of oral and lung cancers.

2. 🥗 Eat Healthy: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.

3. 🏃‍♀️ Stay Active: Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy body weight.

4. ☀️ Limit Sun Exposure: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

5. 🩺 Get Regular Screenings: Early checkups for breast, cervical, and oral cancers can save lives.

6. 💧 Stay Hydrated and Stress-Free: A balanced lifestyle contributes to overall well-being.

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🏥 Government and Public Health Initiatives

• The National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) was launched to promote prevention, early detection, and proper treatment facilities.

• Under the Ayushman Bharat – Health and Wellness Centres, free screenings for common cancers are available.

• Awareness campaigns, health camps, and mobile screening units are organized across India, especially in rural areas.

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📚 References

Government of India. (2014, November 7). National Cancer Awareness Day to be observed on November 7 every year. Press Information Bureau. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1091683

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. (n.d.). National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS). Government of India. https://main.mohfw.gov.in

World Health Organization. (2023). Cancer fact sheet. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer

National Cancer Institute. (2024). Cancer statistics. National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/understanding/statistics

Indian Council of Medical Research. (2023). ICMR-NCDIR report: Cancer burden in India 2023. National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research. https://ncdirindia.org

American Cancer Society. (2023). How to prevent cancer: Steps to reduce your risk. https://www.cancer.org