Every year on February 4th, the world comes together to observe World Cancer Day, a global initiative led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to raise awareness, inspire action, and drive change in cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. At UMC Victoria Hospital, we stand committed to providing cutting-edge cancer care and supporting patients in their fight against this disease.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 10 million people lose their lives to cancer each year. However, one-third of cancers can be prevented, and another one-third can be cured if detected early. World Cancer Day serves as a reminder that we all have a role in reducing the global cancer burden—whether through lifestyle choices, early screenings, or spreading awareness.
Early detection and diagnosis are critical in the fight against cancer. Common cancers such as breast, cervical, prostate, and colorectal cancer have much higher survival rates when identified at an early stage. At UMC Victoria Hospital, we encourage regular screenings, including:
✔ Mammograms for breast cancer
✔ Pap smears for cervical cancer
✔ Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests for prostate cancer
✔ Colonoscopy for colorectal cancer
By recognizing symptoms early and seeking timely medical advice, individuals can significantly improve their chances of successful treatment.
While not all cancers are preventable, adopting a healthy lifestyle can lower your risk. Here are some key prevention strategies:
✅ Avoid tobacco – Smoking is the leading cause of lung and other cancers.
✅ Eat a balanced diet – Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
✅ Exercise regularly – Maintaining a healthy weight reduces cancer risks.
✅ Limit alcohol consumption – Excessive drinking increases the risk of various cancers.
✅ Get vaccinated – Vaccines such as HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and Hepatitis B help prevent cervical and liver cancer.
At UMC Victoria Hospital, we provide comprehensive cancer treatment with a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, radiologists, and specialized nurses. Our hospital is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical treatments to offer the best possible care to cancer patients.
This World Cancer Day, let’s commit to raising awareness, encouraging early screenings, and supporting those affected by cancer. Together, we can close the care gap and move toward a cancer-free future.