Today, The World Cancer Day is being observed in Nepal with a series of awareness programs aimed at combating the rising challenges posed by cancer. The international theme for this year, “Together, we challenge those in power,” resonates with the global call for leaders to prioritize and invest in cancer prevention and care. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the need for concerted efforts to achieve a just and cancer-free world.
In Nepal, the chosen theme for the day is ‘Challenge of cancer is on the Rise, Let’s increase access to care.’ This theme underscores the growing threat of cancer in the country and the importance of expanding access to healthcare services.
According to WHO, in 2022, approximately one million people succumbed to cancer globally. Shockingly, one-third of these deaths were attributed to preventable factors such as tobacco use, obesity, alcohol consumption, inadequate intake of fruits and vegetables, and lack of physical activity.
Lung cancer stands out as the most common form of cancer globally. While accurate statistics on cancer patients in Nepal are not available, WHO highlights a high incidence of cervical and breast cancer among women, contributing significantly to casualties. For men, lung, stomach, and liver cancer are reported to be more prevalent.
This World Cancer Day serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for action to address the growing cancer crisis. In Nepal, the focus is not only on raising awareness but also on increasing access to care. The nation joins the global call for leaders to prioritize and invest in comprehensive cancer prevention and care strategies, working towards a world where no one has to endure the suffering caused by this deadly disease.
04th Feb 2024
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