The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) was formed to increase awareness of cancer. They also highlight the preventative care and treatment procedures that are available. They hope to create a world where millions of preventable cancer deaths are avoided. And cancer treatment is available to all, regardless of nationality, socio-economic background, race or religion.
It is fitting them that this year’s World Cancer Day theme is “Close the Care Gap”.
What is World Cancer Day
While the UICC works towards their goal of a cancer-free world all year, World Cancer Day is the day they really get their message out. Started in 2000 with a few events, World Cancer Day has grown in prominence and in size. For 2022, there are over fifty (and growing) events planned Worldwide including the United States.
While the activities planned deal largely with cancer, some include free screenings, educative classes and materials, and appreciation days for oncologists and their staff. This year the Covid 19 pandemic, and its effect on the early detection of certain cancers is also being addressed.
This Year's Theme - Close The Care Gap
The disparity in levels of healthcare in nations around the world, and even between different socio-economic groups within a country, is a growing concern. The damage these differences can do maybe no more evident than it is in cancer treatment. With early screening and state-of-the-art techniques and equipment, those who receive high quality health care can, and do, survive many types of cancer that often cause the deaths of those who are not so fortunate.
By making “Close the Care Gap” this year’s World Cancer Day theme, the UICC is hoping to create a global think tank where this issue is discussed and solutions found.
Prevention and Early Detection are Key
To accomplish their goals of closing the care gap and preventing millions of avoidable cancer deaths, the UICC is focused on educating people about preventative measures, such as using sunscreen and hats to prevent skin cancer. As well as encouraging screening tests to catch less obvious cancers early on.
Affordable Treatment Options
Another aspect of closing the care gap is providing affordable and accessible treatment options to those who do have cancer. For those in the United States, affordable prescriptions are not a guarantee. Thankfully, for those who are in need of medications to treat cancer, or anything else, rxlesscan help. RxLess works with pharmacies, like CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid, to provide users the lowest cost options to meet their health and wellness needs.