The 4th of February is World Cancer Day which aims to raise awareness and understanding of this critical issue, whilst reducing fear and dispelling misconceptions.
As we continue to navigate our way through a global pandemic, it is clear that the last year has certainly had a significant impact on cancer research, cancer diagnosis and cancer treatment.
This World Cancer Day, we look at what the campaign is and also the importance of early cancer diagnosis and treatment.
What is World Cancer Day?
World Cancer Day was started by the Union for International Cancer Control who are an organisation whose main aims are to:
- Unite the cancer community;
- Promote equality in the prevention and treatment of cancer; and
- Make the control of cancer part of the agenda for world health and development.
Created in 2000, World Cancer Day is a positive movement to encourage us all to unite with one voice to face cancer.
It is an unfortunate fact that the majority of you reading this article will have known someone who has been diagnosed with cancer. Around 9.6 million people die from cancer each year. It is estimated that over a third of cancer cases could be prevented and a further third cured with effective detection techniques and treatment.
World Cancer Day 2021
The theme for this year’s World Cancer Day is “I Am And I Will”, recognising that our commitment to act will result in progress to reduce the impact of cancer globally. This is a three-year campaign, meaning there is a chance to create a longer-lasting impact by increasing the public facing exposure and engagement along with more opportunities to build global awareness. 2021 is the final year of this theme.
The aim of the campaign theme is to think about our actions and the impact on those around us. It is a reminder that, when we choose to come together, we can achieve a brighter future and work towards a world without cancer.
How to get involved on World Cancer Day 2021
Anyone can get involved in World Cancer Day 2020. The World Cancer Day website has started a Word Cancer Day 21 Days to Impact Challenge.
The challenge focuses on the fact that it takes 21 days to create a positive habit, and there are five challenges you can sign up to on the website. You’ll then receive guidance and inspiration to complete the challenge in 21 days. The five challenges are:
- I Will Focus On My Health
- I Will Support Someone I Know With Cancer
- I Will Speak Up About Cancer
- I Will Get Informed About Cancer
- I Will Help Eliminate Cervical Cancer
The World Cancer Day website provides more information about the challenge, and how you can get involved.
Cancer negligence claims
A cancer diagnosis is devastating. Early, prompt diagnosis is key to ensuring the best possible chance of treatment being successful.
But, the very sad reality is that, sometimes, cancer diagnoses can be missed in their very earliest stages. This can have a devastating impact to treatment options, and potential survival.
If you have suffered the loss of a loved one from cancer due to delays in diagnosis or treatment, or you yourself have suffered a delay in diagnosis or treatment of cancer, it might be possible to bring a claim against the hospital.
Such claims are legally and medically complex and it is vital that you have the right specialist support from the outset.
How can Nelsons help?
Danielle Young is Senior Associate in our highly regarded Medical Negligence team.
When you are dealing with a cancer diagnosis and treatment, or the consequences of any loss, it can be difficult to know where to start. At Nelsons, we have a team of experienced medical negligence solicitors. We understand the impact that a diagnosis of cancer can have and we pride ourselves on our friendly and professional service, particularly in these difficult and emotional cases.
If you would like any advice in relation to the subjects discussed in this article, please contact Danielle or another member of the team in Derby, Leicester or Nottingham on 0800 024 1976 or via our online form.