Observe National Cancer Prevention Month in February. In addition, observe National Cancer Prevention Day on February 4. And, observe World Cancer Day on February 4, which is an annual event promoted by the Union for International Cancer Control.

National Cancer Prevention Month unites the world’s population in the global fight against cancer. These observations and initiatives increase awareness and empower individuals to live healthier lives.

According to a study conducted by the American Cancer Society, at least 42% of newly diagnosed cancers in the US are potentially avoidable. This translates to about 750,000 cases in 2020.

Further, smoking causes 19% of all cancers, and 18% are caused by a combination of excess body weight, alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and physical inactivity.

As a result, stop smoking to improve your health (or don’t starting in the first place), maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, protect your skin from the sun, and vaccinate yourself against the pathogens that cause many cancers. These steps dramatically reduce your cancer risk.

Key Cancer Facts

10 million people die from cancer every year.

At least one third of common cancers are preventable.

Cancer is the second-leading cause of death worldwide.

70% of cancer deaths occur in low-to-middle income countries.

Implement resource appropriate strategies for prevention, early detection and treatment. By doing so, millions of lives can be saved.

The total annual economic cost of cancer is estimated at $1.16 trillion.