World Cancer Day: Act Now

On the 4th of February, the world commemorates World Cancer Day as a global initiative to raise awareness about different types of cancer and how to prevent the disease. This day serves as a reminder for the world to unite in the fight against one of the deadliest diseases globally. ‘Cancer can happen to anyone at any time.‘ It is a widespread disease that equally affects people regardless of race, class, or gender, including children. Certain cancers have a higher incidence in either women or men. From governments, cancer associations, and health institutions to patients, cancer is the concern of every individual. It is an alarming societal issue that requires urgent attention year after year. You can make a meaningful impact in this crucial battle by getting involved on World Cancer Day.

Taking Action Against Cancer

The main objective of World Cancer Day is to promote actions that can help reduce the global burden of cancer and improve the quality of life for cancer patients and survivors. It aims to rally individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide to take action against cancer. By raising awareness and promoting global collaboration, World Cancer Day plays a crucial role in the fight against cancer and strives to reduce its impact on individuals, families, and communities worldwide.

Cancer Figures Worldwide

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, accounting for an estimated 9.6 million deaths in 2018

•  The most common types of cancer worldwide are lung, breast, colorectal, prostate, stomach, and liver cancer.
• Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death globally, accounting for approximately 1.8 million deaths in 2020.
• Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with an estimated 2.3 million new cases diagnosed in 2020.
• Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide, with around 1.9 million new cases in 2020.
• Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, with approximately 1.4 million new cases in 2020.
• The burden of cancer is increasing globally, with an estimated 19.3 million new cancer cases and 10 million cancer deaths projected for 2020.
• Low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected by cancer, accounting for approximately 70% of cancer deaths worldwide.
• Common risk factors for cancer include tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, infections (such as hepatitis B and C, human papillomavirus), exposure to environmental and occupational carcinogens, and genetic predisposition.

Celebrating World Cancer Day In Mauritius

 

To celebrate World Cancer Day, Artemis Hospital in Curepipe has introduced four packages to aid in cancer detection. These packages include breast cancer detection, cervical cancer detection, prostate cancer detection, and colon cancer detection. Join us in the fight against cancer to reduce the risk and improve cure rates. Remember, prevention is better than cure. In addition, as part of World Cancer Day, the former president of the National Institute of Cancer in France and current partner of Artemis Curepipe Hospital, a member of the Falcon Healthcare Group, gives us his analysis of the situation in Mauritius and talks to us about his desire to “improve more, as far as possible, obviously, the way Mauritians with cancer will be treated in the future.

Some common cancer screening tests include:

1. Mammography: A screening test for breast cancer that uses X-rays to detect abnormalities or changes in breast tissue.
2. Pap test (Pap smear): A screening test for cervical cancer that involves collecting cells from the cervix to check for any abnormal changes.
3. Colonoscopy: A screening test for colorectal cancer that involves examining the colon and rectum using a flexible tube with a camera.
4. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: A blood test that measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland, to screen for prostate cancer.
5. Skin cancer screening: A visual examination of the skin by a healthcare professional to check for any suspicious moles, growths, or lesions.

Practicing regular screening for early detection is vital in identifying cancer at an early stage, thereby increasing the chances of a successful recovery. The absence of symptoms does not guarantee the absence of a health issue. Only a thorough examination can help determine the underlying problem.

 

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Save A Life, Donate To Falcon Mauritius Cancer Institute (FMCI)

 

In 2024, more than ever, we need your support. Donating to FMCI Mauritius is easy! Simply visit our website and get in touch with our team, who will be ready to assist you. Alternatively, feel free to call us or pay a visit to our office in Floreal if you have any questions or need further information. We have more good news to share! You can also contribute to our branch in the USA, and rest assured that all funds will directly support our cause. Your generosity will have a great impact on the lives of those fighting cancer. Without donations, our association cannot effectively carry out its mission. Just as heroes thrive with the support of a sidekick, our cancer patients rely on your generous support.