#WorldCancerDay2019

The purpose of world cancer day is to empower people across the globe to support, raise awareness, and drive action. As today is world cancer day, and as a cancer researcher and science communicator, I felt a duty to show my support with a blog post!

Cancer is an extremely complex group of diseases, caused by abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth with the capacity to spread around the body and destroy healthy tissue. Every year, around 9.6 million people die from cancer, and in 2018 alone, 18 million people were diagnosed with cancer. In fact, Cancer Research UK estimate that at least 1 in 3 people will develop cancer in their lifetime. There are over 200 types of cancer, and some are more common than others. Each of these cancers are different in their diagnosis, severity, behaviour and treatment.

The thing about cancer is that, because of cutting edge research and incredible scientific breakthroughs, over two thirds of cancer cases can be prevented or cured if detected early.  For this reason, research is immensely important for progression. Screening strategies and more targeted treatments have improved significantly over the years and this is mirrored in the increase in survival of patients. 

Now, it’s easy to feel a bit bombarded with information, and be left unsure of how you can contribute to making an impact. But anyone can in the smallest of ways. The work of charities, researchers, healthcare professionals, funding bodies and the government, relies on small changes from you and I to make a big BIG difference. The theme of world cancer day 2019-2021 is #IAmAndIWill. So...

I Am a Cancer Researcher And I Will Investigate and Educate.

So what can you do to make a change, show support, enhance progression, and to help fight cancer?

• Donate – even pennies are a contribution. This money can help to fund research and support patient and hospices. 

• Volunteer, even for an hour! Small things such as donating to charity shops also really helps! However, not everyone is able to donate or find the time to volunteer so…

• Attend screening! In the UK, the NHS will contact you when you are due for screening of cancers such as cervical, breast and bowel cancer. Book your appointments and go! These are so important and really help to save thousands of lives, not to mention, has an economic impact by saving money!

• Educate yourself – a bit of reading can go a long way (some resources are linked below). Make yourself aware of cancer myths, pick the brains of your medic friends, speak to people and get the conversation going! 

• Share your story – often it’s the case that real-life stories resonate with people the most and encourage a change. Open up to those around you or share a tweet, and you never know who you may help. 

• Learn how to check yourself – some great resources here and here.   

• Live well - remember, prevention is key so live well, eat a balanced diet, keep moving and moderate your consumption of alcohol.

Useful Resources:

WorldCancerDay.org
Cancer Research UK
NHS UK