World Cancer Day commemorations on 4 February 2017 continue to be under the theme of “We Can, I Can” launched in 2016 as part of a three-year campaign to maximize reach and impact. It is a day to reflect on how cancer affects everyone in different ways, and how collectively or individually, we all, from lunch makers to law makers, can take various actions to reduce the impact of cancer on individuals, families and communities.
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth and spread of cells. It can affect almost any part of the body. The growths often invade surrounding tissue and can metastasize to distant sites.
Many cancers can be prevented by avoiding exposure to common risk factors, such as tobacco smoke. In addition, a significant proportion of cancers can be cured, by surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy, especially if they are detected early.