Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 8.2 million deaths in 2012 only, according to World Health Organization (WHO). And the number of new cases is expected to rise by about 70 per cent over the next two decades — the annual cancer cases will rise from 14 million in 2012 to 22 million within the next two decades as per WHO.

The number of cancer patients is sure to increase in the coming years and the World Cancer Day that is marked every year on February 4 unites organisations and individuals around the world to raise awareness about cancer, and work to make cancer a global health priority.

The World Cancer Day this year, is taking place under the tagline ‘We can. I can.’. It will explore how everyone — as a collective or as individuals — can do their part to reduce the global burden of cancer as per the WHO.

Just as cancer affects everyone in different ways, all people have the power to take various actions to reduce the impact that cancer has on individuals, families and communities. And World Cancer Day is a chance to reflect on what you can do, make a pledge and take action, mentions Union For International Cancer Control (UICC).

As the world gears up to celebrate the World Cancer Day, let’s have a look on some of the cancer related facts so we can fight against cancer.

Preventive measures

Cancer is a generic term for a large group of diseases that can affect any part of the body. Other terms used are malignant tumours and neoplasms. One defining feature of cancer is the rapid creation of abnormal cells that grow beyond their usual boundaries, and which can then invade adjoining parts of the body and spread to other organs, the latter process is referred to as metastasising. Metastases are the major cause of death from cancer.

According to Dr Prakash Raj Neupane, 60-70 per cent cases of cancer is because of our lifestyle, and 10 per cent is genetic. So, he urges us to change our lifestyle and follow the following measures to prevent cancer.

•    Take vaccinations available

•    Treat your infections

•    Exercise

•    Maintain your body weight

•    Check up regularly

•    Use hats, apply sunscreen while sitting under sun between 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

•    Drink at least three litres of water

•    Include proteins, green leafy vegetables in our diet

•    Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol and barbequed food items