2017 wcd allfactsheets_english

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
Join us in 2017 #WeCanICan
#WorldCancerDay
INSPIRE ACTION,
TAKE ACTION
WE CAN

The first step in driving progress around
cancer is to push for actions that we
know will improve survival rates and
give cancer patients a better quality
of life.
The World Cancer Declaration represents
a consensus between public health and
cancer experts that sets out 9 targets for
an effective response to cancer and other
non-communicable diseases (NCDs) –
mainly cardiovascular diseases, chronic
respiratory diseases and diabetes1
. It is a
tool that can be used by cancer control
organisations, groups of advocates,
employers, the media and others to urge
governments to implement policies and
programmes that the cancer community
knows will be successful if they are
adequately resourced.
With the world’s governments committed
to ‘reduce by one third premature
mortality from NCDs through prevention
and treatment, and promote mental
health and wellbeing’ as part of the
Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs),
using the World Cancer Declaration to
frame and strengthen advocacy efforts
is imperative2
. By working together
around common targets and each using
our spheres of influence, we can unite
in driving governments to take decisive
action around cancer, commit adequate
resources and embed cancer and other
NCDs within broader development
planning and financing processes.
1. World Cancer Declaration. http://www.uicc.org/world-cancer-declaration
2. Transforming our World: The 2030 agenda for sustainable development. https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/post2015
WE CAN
INSPIRE ACTION, TAKE ACTION
This factsheet is aimed at
Healthcare
professionals
Policy
makers
CitiesWorkplaces Schools
Sport leisure
groups
We can all call on governments to step up their response to cancer
by pushing for actions that we know will reduce premature deaths,
and improve quality of life and increase cancer survival rates.

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
PREVENT CANCER
WE CAN

Changes in the way we live means that
more and more people around the world
are exposed to cancer risk factors like
smoking, poor diet, and sedentary
lifestyles. Educating and informing
individuals and communities about
the links between lifestyle and cancer
risk is the first step in effective cancer
prevention.
Smoking is still the biggest cancer risk
factor. Tobacco use accounts for five million
deaths every year, or 22% of all cancer
deaths1,2
. Reducing the rates of tobacco use
will significantly decrease the global burden
of a large number of cancers, including
of the lung, oral cavity, larynx, pharynx,
oesophageal, pancreas, bladder, kidney,
cervix and stomach, and acute myeloid
leukaemia.
Consuming alcohol is linked to an increased
risk of six cancers. There is now strong
evidence that consuming alcoholic drinks
increases the risk of seven cancers: mouth,
pharynx, larynx, oesophageal, liver, breast3
,
and pancreas4
.
The rising levels of obesity are of concern
in many countries around the world.
Overweight and obesity are strongly linked
with an increased risk of bowel, breast,
uterine, ovarian, pancreatic, oesophagus,
kidney, and gallbladder cancers later in
life5
. Yet, about a third of common cancers
can be prevented through a healthy diet,
maintaining a healthy weight and being
physically active6
. Specifically, the World
Cancer Research Fund International
estimates that for the 13 most common
cancers, about 31% of cases in the United
States are preventable through a healthy
diet, being physically active and maintaining
a healthy weight. The estimates for other
countries are 32% for the UK, 25% for Brazil
and 24% for China7
.
Equipping individuals and communities
with the latest knowledge of the links
between lifestyle and cancer can
empower people to adopt healthy choices.
Individuals and communities need to be
informed that more than a third of cancers
are preventable through adopting healthy
behaviours.
1. WHO. (2012). Global Report: Mortality attributable to
tobacco 2012. Geneva: World Health Organization.
2. Tobacco Atlas 2015
3. WHO. (2011). Global status report on alcohol and health.
Geneva: World Health Organization
4. World Cancer Research Fund / American Institute for
Cancer Research. Continuous Update Project (2012)
Pancreatic Cancer. http://www.wcrf.org/sites/default/files/
Pancreatic-Cancer-2012-Report.pdf
5. World Cancer Research Fund / American Institute for
Cancer Research. Continuous Update Project Report.
http://www.dietandcancerreport.org/cup/index.php.
6. World Cancer Research Fund International. Link between
lifestyle and cancer risk. http://www.wcrf.org/int/link-
between-lifestyle-cancer-risk
7. World Cancer Research Fund International. http://www.
wcrf.org/int/cancer-facts-figures/preventability-estimates/
cancer-preventability-estimates-diet-nutrition and http://
www.wcrf.org/int/policy/nourishing-framework?utm_
source=updateutm_medium=emailutm_
campaign=NOURISHINGJuly
WE CAN
PREVENT CANCER
Healthcare
professionals
Policy
makers
Sport leisure
groups

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
CREATE HEALTHY
SCHOOLS
WE CAN

Every school can foster a culture of healthy
choices and habits by providing nutritious
food and drink choices, as well as time for
recreation and sport, and putting practical
education about food and physical activity on
the school curriculum.1
Providing healthy choices in school canteens
and cafeterias to ensure children have access
to lower energy density meals and snacks, and
to water as an alternative to sugar-sweetened
beverages, can have a considerable influence
on the development of positive attitudes
towards food and promote healthy behaviours.1
In some countries, there are also opportunities
for schools to participate in programmes on
food growing, harvesting, cooking and eating.
For example, kitchen garden projects in the
United Kingdom and Australia support primary
schools to bring pleasurable food education
and cooking skills to life, and aim to change
the way children think about food through fun
and hands-on learning.2,3
In some cases, policy changes can support
improvements in access to healthier foods and
nutrition education in schools. For example, the
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act 2010 that allows
the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
to make real reforms to the school lunch and
breakfast programmes such as establishing
national nutrition standards for all foods sold
on the school campus throughout the school
day.4
The establishment of standards for meals
provided in schools, or foods and beverages
sold in schools, that meet healthy nutrition
guidelines, is one of a set of recommendations
by the World Health Organization to promote
healthy school environments.1
Inclusive, quality physical education should
also be part of the school curriculum. Physical
education programmes provide instruction and
skill-learning opportunities that contribute to
the development of physical literacy, which
is linked to a greater likelihood of life-long
participation, as well as positive attitudes and
behaviours.5,6
Regular participation in quality
physical education can also improve a child’s
attention span, enhance their cognitive control
and processing.1
For some schools, appointing a person to
oversee investment and policies that support
a healthy school environment may have wide-
reaching benefits for improving the physical
and mental health of students and staff that
extend to the whole community.7
Schools can be champions of healthy
behaviours among children, staff, parents,
families and the wider community by
cultivating an environment that supports good
nutrition and physical activity.
1. WHO (2016). Report of the commission on ending
childhood obesity.
2. Food Revolution Day. School Resources. http://www.
foodrevolutionday.com/schools/#DVCHyR8LzJQL3EIf.97
3. Kitchen Garden Foundation. Teaching Resources. http://
www.kitchengardenfoundation.org.au/free-resources/
teaching-resources
4. American Heart Association. Healthy, Hunger-Free
Kids Act: A health recipe for school nutrition. https://
www.heart.org/idc/groups/heart-public/@wcm/@adv/
documents/downloadable/ucm_474338.pdf
5. Let’s Move: Active Schools. http://www.letsmoveschools.
org/about
6. Australian Sports Commission. Clearinghouse for Sport.
https://www.clearinghouseforsport.gov.au/knowledge_
base/organised_sport/value_of_sport/school_sport
7. The Guardian. Want a healthy school? A head of wellbeing
could be the answer https://www.theguardian.com/
teacher-network/2015/nov/03/healthy-school-head-of-
wellbeing-the-answer
WE CAN
CREATE HEALTHY SCHOOLS
Schools

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
CREATE HEALTHY
WORKPLACE
WE CAN

With the global labour force predicted
to rise to 3.5 billion by 2030, there is
a tremendous opportunity to harness
the workplace as a platform for cancer
prevention and early detection1
.
Workplaces of all sizes can put in place
policies and programmes that motivate
employees to adopt healthier behaviours.
Creating 100% smoke-free workplaces
and providing information and access
to smoking cessation tools is one of the
clearest examples of effective workplace
policy for cancer prevention – a ban
on smoking in all indoor workplaces
can reduce the prevalence of smoking
by 6%2,3,4
. Other measures such as
providing access to healthy food options;
promoting active transport to and from
work; and increasing movement in the
workplace for example, through use of
stairs, are all effective ways to support
a healthier workforce1,5
. Workplace
wellness programmes can also promote
early detection by using communications
channels to share information about the
signs and symptoms of some cancers
and where appropriate, encourage and
support participation in cancer screening
programmes for early diagnosis6
.
Workplaces should also put in place
policies to prevent occupational
exposure to cancer-causing agents,
such as asbestos and other workplace
carcinogens7
.
1. UICC, Bupa. (2014). Cancer – It’s everyone’s business.
http://www.iccp-portal.org/cancer-its-everyones-business
2. UICC, Bupa (2015). Less Smoking, Better Business. http://
www.iccp-portal.org/less-smoking-better-business
3. Global Smokefree Partnership. Smokefree-in-a-box. www.
globalsmokefreepartnership.org
4. Eriksen M, Mackay J, Schluger N, et al. The Tobacco Atlas,
5th Edition, (2015). American Cancer Society, Atlanta.
5. NCD Alliance (2016). Realising the potential of workplaces
to prevent and control NCDs. https://ncdalliance.org/sites/
default/files/NCDs_%26_WorkplaceWellness_web.pdf
6. UICC, Bupa (2015). Tackling breast cancer in the
workplace. http://www.iccp-portal.org/tackling-breast-
cancer-workplace
7. International Labour Office. Safety in the Use of Asbestos.
http://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/@ed_protect/@
protrav/@safework/documents/normativeinstrument/
wcms_107843.pdf
WE CAN
CREATE HEALTHY WORKPLACE
Workplaces
Employers can implement measures in the workplace that will
motivate and sustain healthy habits throughout a person’s
everyday life.

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
CREATE HEALTHY
CITIES 
WE CAN

With 66% of the world’s population
projected to live in urban areas by 2050,
the quality of the urban environment
will play an increasingly important role
in public health.1
In many cities across the world, mayors
and urban policy makers are collaborating
more than ever before on innovative
solutions for creating and sustaining
healthy cities. They are sharing ideas;
forming alliances; and challenging their
national governments to adopt policies
to promote and protect the health and
wellbeing of their citizens.1-3
One of the clearest examples of the use
of effective public policy for cancer and
non-communicable diseases (NCDs)
prevention is the creation of smoke-
free environments to prevent cancer
and other NCDs. Even in the absence
of comprehensive national policies,
cities in many countries are taking the
lead in strengthening implementation of
comprehensive smoke-free regulations
that cover all indoor workplaces, public
places and public transport.4,5
Cities can also support people to be
physically active by making cycling and
walking accessible and safe modes of
transport for everyone, and providing
universal access to safe, inclusive and
accessible, green and public spaces.1,6
Creating public spaces and improving
infrastructures in cities to encourage
active play and travel can have wide-
ranging benefits for communities,
increasing the integration of physical
activity into people’s everyday life as well
as reducing deaths and injuries from road
traffic accidents and improving air quality.
1. World Health Organization (2016). Global report on
urban health: equitable, healthier cities for sustainable
development.
2. Cities Changing Diabetes. http://citieschangingdiabetes.
com
3. Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge. http://
mayorschallenge.bloomberg.org
5. China Tobacco Control Partnership. Smoke-free business
for a healthier tomorrow, 2015. Emory Global Health
Institute, Atlanta.
6. Daniel K (2016). Public spaces: A key tool to achieve the
Sustainable Development Goals. http://healthbridge.ca/
images/uploads/library/Final_Electronic.pdf
WE CAN
CREATE HEALTHY CITIES
Policy
makers
Cities
Cities can take the lead in creating a quality urban environment that
promotes and protects the health and wellbeing of its citizens.

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
SUPPORT OTHERS
TO RETURN TO WORK
WE CAN

Employers can create a workplace
culture where employees with a cancer
diagnosis are encouraged to know that
when they return to work they will be
supported to adapt to the challenges
they face from their illness1-3
.
Employers can take several actions to
help people living with cancer transition
back to the workplace successfully.
Supporting a flexible return to work,
such as making changes in hours or
responsibilities, can be an important
factor in getting people back to
work successfully. Keeping the lines
of communication open can also be
critical. Talking with an employee about
job modifications, legal rights and
responsibilities, and support programmes
available in the workplace will empower
them to take control of their health and
wellbeing and help ease their transition
back to work. Additionally, employers
should be aware of their obligations
to prevent discrimination at work and
enforce workplace policies that ensure
employees coping with cancer and their
caregivers are not disadvantaged in
recruitment, at work and when returning
to work.
Caregivers also need flexibility at
work. Employers can be supportive by
extending flexible workplace policies
to caregivers, and providing access to
resources such as workplace counselling.
For co-workers, being sensitive to the
needs and feelings of the person affected
by cancer at work and keeping in touch
during time away from the workplace can
be very helpful.
1. UICC, Bupa (2015). Working with cancer: Supporting
employees living with cancer to return to work. http://
www.iccp-portal.org/resources/uicc-bupa-–-working-
cancer-supporting-employees-living-cancer-return-work
3. Macmillan Cancer Support. Managing Cancer in
the Workplace. http://www.macmillan.org.uk/
Cancerinformation/Livingwithandaftercancer/
Workandcancer/Supportformanagers/Employersguide/
Managingoverview.aspx.
WE CAN
SUPPORT OTHERS TO RETURN TO WORK
Workplaces
By providing the right support, employers and co-workers can foster
a successful transition back to work for cancer patients.

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
CHALLENGE
PERCEPTIONS
WE CAN

In many cultures and societies today, cancer
remains a taboo subject. People living with
cancer are often subject to stigma and
discrimination that may stop them admitting
they have cancer and from seeking care and
support. Even within communities where
cancer is discussed openly, people affected
by cancer can sometimes be discriminated
against and feel isolated from friends and
peers1
.
Specific efforts are required to improve
knowledge of cancer, counter misinformation
and reduce stigma among all communities2,3
.
Supporting awareness campaigns such as
World Cancer Day can be a powerful platform
to challenge negative beliefs, attitudes and
behaviours that perpetuate myths about
cancer4
. Workplaces, community groups,
healthcare providers and schools can all take
actions to improve communication about
cancer, shifting perceptions and strengthening
support for people affected by cancer. In
schools, for example, theatre can provide a
platform for children, parents, and teachers
to work together to improve communication
and remove stigma around the disease. Such
education programmes have been shown
to be successful in supporting the inclusion
of children with cancer into everyday life at
school5
.
Governments can also play a critical
role in providing accurate information
to communities around effective cancer
interventions. For instance, extensive social
mobilisation has been identified as critical to
the implementation of human papillomavirus
(HPV) vaccination programmes in low-
and middle- income countries as part of
comprehensive cervical cancer prevention
strategies. Providing appropriate and adequate
information to communities, especially to
avoid rumours and myths is a key factor to
achieving high vaccine coverage6
.
The media also have a particular role to
play around public education campaigns
by disseminating information and raising
population-level awareness of cancer control
to change attitudes and dispel common myths.
Governments, communities, schools,
employers and media can challenge
perceptions about cancer and dispel
damaging myths and misconceptions so
that all people are empowered to access
accurate cancer information and quality
cancer prevention and care.
1. LIVESTRONG. (2011). Cancer Stigma and Silence Around
the World: A LIVESTRONG Report . Austin: LIVESTRONG.
2. http://www.livestrong.org/What-We-Do/Our-Actions/
Programs-Partnerships/Anti-Stigma-Campaign
3. Cancer Research UK http://scienceblog.cancerresearchuk.
org/2014/03/24/dont-believe-the-hype-10-persistent-
cancer-myths-debunked/
4. American Cancer Society http://www.cancer.org/aboutus/
howwehelpyou/rumors-myths-and-truths
5. dos Santos Gomez LA (2007). Removing the stigma of
cancer at school. Lancet Oncol. 8:682-4.
6. Watson-Jones D, Mugo N, Lees S, Mathai M, Vusha S,
Ndirangu G, et al. (2015) Access and Attitudes to HPV
Vaccination amongst Hard-To-Reach Populations in Kenya.
PLoS ONE 10: e0123701. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0123701
WE CAN
CHALLENGE PERCEPTIONS
Healthcare
professionals
Sport leisure
groups

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
IMPROVE ACCESS
TO CANCER CARE
WE CAN

Closing the gap in access to affordable,
quality cancer care is an imperative
for maximising outcomes and quality
of life for all people living with cancer,
including children and adolescents.
Access to effective, quality cancer
care should be embedded within a
country’s National Cancer Control Plan
(NCCP). NCCPs should cover access
to each of the critical components
of a multidisciplinary approach
encompassing supportive and palliative
care, high-quality cancer medicines and
effective cancer treatment modalities1,2
.
This includes radiotherapy, which is
recognised as an essential tool in the
cure and palliation of cancer and is
indicated in more than half of new cancer
patients3. Additionally, resource-sensitive
clinical guidelines can be used to assist
with the planning and delivery of early
detection and treatment4,5. Addressing
barriers to equitable access to quality
cancer services should include the
alleviation of cultural and structural issues
e.g. transportation, as well as policies and
programmes to improve the availability of
a skilled cancer workforce.
Of equal importance is to address
affordability of care to protect individuals
and families from financial hardship as a
consequence of out-of-pocket expenses.
The provision of universal health coverage
(UHC) and other social protection
measures can play an important role in
closing the unacceptable gaps in access
to cancer services that occur in most low-
resource settings.
We can advocate for improved access
to cancer treatment and services across
the care continuum. All people have the
right to benefit from these interventions
on equal terms, regardless of geography
and without suffering economic
hardship as a consequence.
1. International Cancer Control Partnership. Cancer Plans.
http://www.iccp-portal.org/cancer-plans
2. Hogerzeil HV, Liberman J, Wirtz VJ, et al. (2013). Promotion
of access to essential medicines for non-communicable
diseases: practical implications of the UN political
declaration. Lancet , 381, 680-9.
3. Delaney G, Jacob S, Featherstone C, Barton M. (2005).
The role of radiotherapy in cancer treatment: estimating
optimal utilization from a review of evidence-based clinical
guidelines. Cancer 104, 1129-37.
4. WHO. (2013). WHO guidelines for screening and treatment
of precancerous lesions for cervical cancer prevention.
Geneva: World Health Organization.
5. Yip CH, Smith RA, Anderson BO, et al. (2008). Guideline
Implementation for Breast Healthcare in Low- and Middle-
Income Countries Early Detection Resource Allocation.
Cancer 113, 2244-56
WE CAN
IMPROVE ACCESS TO CANCER CARE
Healthcare
professionals
Policy
makers
Cities

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
SHAPE POLICY CHANGE
WE CAN

The law and regulatory measures can be used
effectively to reduce exposure to cancer risks
including to tobacco, alcohol and unhealthy
foods, as well as environmental exposures.
Tobacco taxation has been identified as the
single most important policy intervention that
governments can take to reduce major risk
factors for NCDs1
. It costs little to implement
and increases government revenues. The
World Health Organization (WHO) calculates
that if all countries increased taxes on cigarette
packs by 50%, there would be 49 million fewer
smokers (38 million fewer adult smokers and
11 million fewer young future smokers) and this
would avert 11 million deaths from smoking2
.
Additionally, policy interventions around
product labelling, procurement and regulation
of advertising, promotion and sponsorship
can reduce exposure to unhealthy foods and
drinks3,4
.
Effective policy at the national level can
also improve access to essential cancer
medicines including pain relief medicines,
and deliver quality cancer care. Following
a targeted advocacy campaign, in 2014 at
the World Health Assembly, governments
adopted a resolution which provided clear
recommendations to improve access to
palliative care5
. These include ensuring
palliative care is embedded in all national
health policies and budgets, and in the
curricula for health professionals. Vitally,
it also highlights the need for countries to
ensure that there is an adequate supply of all
essential palliative care medicines for adults
and children.
In another concerted advocacy effort, UICC
led a close collaboration with WHO and
a dedicated task team to ensure the best
representation of cancer drugs in the WHO
Model List of Essential Medicines (EML).
As a result of these efforts, in May 2015, the
latest edition of the WHO EML was published
and includes 16 new cancer treatments - a
milestone in patients’ access to cancer
medicines6,7
.
Patients, families, healthcare providers and
civil society now need to continue to advocate
to governments for the implementation of
policies and programmes at the national level
that translate these commitments into action
for patients and their families.
Effective advocacy for policy change at
all levels - local, national, and global - can
reduce exposure to cancer risk factors and
improve access and availability of essential
cancer medicines and quality cancer care.
1. Jamison DT, Summers LH, Alleyne G, et al. (2013). Global
health 2035: a world converging within a generation.
Lancet, Published Online December 3, 2013 http://dx.doi.
org/10.1016/.
2. WHO (2014). Raising tax on tobacco: What you need to
know. Geneva: World Health Organization.
3. WHO. (2010). Set of recommendations on the marketing
of foods and non-alcoholic beverages to children.
4. WCRF International. (2014). WCRF International Food
Policy Framework for Healthy Diets: NOURISHING.
http://www.wcrf.org/policy_public_affairs/nourishing_
framework/index.php.
5. WHO (2014). Strengthening of palliative care as a
component of integrated treatment throughout the life
course. A67/31 4 April 2014.
6. 19th WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (April 2015).
www.who.int/medicines/publications/essentialmedicines/
EML2015_8-May-15.pdf
7. 20th WHO Expert Committee report on the Selection
and Use of Essential Medicines (2015) www.who.int/
medicines/publications/essentialmedicines/Executive-
Summary_EML-2015_7-May-15.pdf
WE CAN
SHAPE POLICY CHANGE
Healthcare
professionals
Policy
makers
Cities

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
BUILD A QUALITY
WORKFORCE
WE CAN

Inadequate education of healthcare
providers is one of the most pervasive
and urgent obstacles to address in
delivering quality cancer care1
.
Investment in continuing professional
development (CPD) to equip healthcare
workers with the appropriate tools and
knowledge to deliver best practice
services across the cancer care
continuum is vital. This includes building
expertise and capacity amongst health
professionals to recognise the early
signs and symptoms of some cancers,
as well as appropriate early detection
measures; ensuring the safe and proper
administration of chemotherapy and
other cancer treatment modalities
including radiotherapy and surgery; and
delivering palliative care and pain and
distress management.
Whilst education can include both
conventional teaching methods as well
as e-learning platforms and multimedia
tools, where possible it should also build
on existing materials, training networks
and infrastructure2,3,4
.
1. Global Health Workforce Alliance. (2013). A universal truth:
no health without a workforce. Geneva: World Health
Organization.
2. C-Change. (2012). A National Strategy to Strengthen the
Cancer Workforce: Position Statement and Call to Action.
http://c-changetogether.org/Websites/cchange/images/
Workforce/WORKFORKCE_POSITION_STATEMENT-_
with_endorsements-_February_28_2013.pdf
3. iheed Institute. (2012). Preparing the next generation of
community health workers: The power of technology for
training. iheed Institute, the Barr Foundation, the mHealth
Alliance, and the MDG Health Alliance. Cork, Ireland:
Dalberg Global Development Advisors.
4. The Recife Political Declaration on Human Resources for
Health (HRH). http://www.who.int/workforcealliance/
forum/2013/recife_declaration_13nov.pdf
WE CAN
BUILD A QUALITY WORKFORCE
Workplaces
The cancer workforce can be equipped with the skills, knowledge
and competencies required to meet the needs of individuals and
communities across the cancer continuum.

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
MAKE THE CASE FOR INVESTING
IN CANCER CONTROL
WE CAN

The economic case is a vital piece of the
puzzle to change mind-sets around the
value of investing in cancer prevention,
early detection and control.1
There is already a compelling financial/
economic argument for investing in the
prevention of cancer. A case in point is
tobacco control. While the annual economic
costs of tobacco-related cancers exceed
USD 200 billion, for the average low- and
middle-income country, the amount
necessary to deliver the four “best buy”
tobacco control measures is approximately
USD 0.11 per capita.2,3
These four measures
include: tobacco tax increases, smoke-free
policies, graphic package warnings, and
advertising bans.
Of these four measures, increasing excise
taxes on tobacco products is widely
accepted as one of the most effective and
affordable tobacco control interventions4
.
The World Health Organization (WHO)
estimates that raising tobacco taxes costs
as little as USD 0.005 per person per year
and can save millions of lives.4
Additionally,
it has been shown that raising tobacco
taxes does not lead to a fall in government
revenues – evidence suggests that if
countries increased tobacco tax by 50% per
pack, governments around the world would
earn an extra USD 101 billion in revenue.5
The cancer community is now drawing on
its networks of experts to build the global
evidence base on the economic costs and
the return on investment (ROI) in taking
on other proven strategies for cancer
prevention, early detection and health
systems strengthening. This includes the
case for investment in radiotherapy, which is
indicated to be a critical tool in the cure and
palliation of more than half of cancer cases6
.
The Global Task Force on Radiotherapy for
Cancer Control (GTFRCC) has provided
compelling evidence to show that scaling-
up investment in radiotherapy could enable
treatment of large numbers of cancer cases
to save lives, and at the same time deliver
substantial economic benefits.7
Building the economic case for investment
in cancer can change mind-sets and allow
governments to justify placing cancer
control at the heart of their national health
plans.
WE CAN
INSPIRE ACTION, TAKE ACTION
1. UICC. The Economics of cancer prevention control:
Data digest (2014). http://www.iccp-portal.org/
economics-cancer-prevention-control-data-digest
2. World Health Organization. Scaling up action against
noncommunicable diseases: how much will it cost?
Geneva: WHO Press; 2011
3. Tobacco Atlas. Investing in tobacco control. http://www.
tobaccoatlas.org/topic/investing-in-tobacco-control/
4. Chaloupka F, Yurekli A, Fong G. Tobacco Taxes as a
Tobacco Control Strategy. Tobacco Control. 2013.
5. World Health Organization. (2014). Raising tax on tobacco
- What you need to know, Geneva: WHO Press.
6. Delaney G, Jacob S, Featherstone C, Barton M. (2005).
The role of radiotherapy in cancer treatment: estimating
optimal utilization from a review of evidence-based
clinical guidelines. Cancer 104, 1129-37.
7. The Lancet Oncology Commission. (2015). Expanding
global access to radiotherapy. Lancet Oncology 16,
1143-86
Healthcare
professionals
Policy
makers
CitiesWorkplaces

world
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worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
JOIN FORCES TO
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
WE CAN

Joining forces to create innovative
and multisectoral partnerships is a
key step in mobilising civil society,
strengthening advocacy efforts and
making governments accountable.
By uniting around common goals and
aspirations, the global cancer community
can leverage the complementary skills,
knowledge and spheres of influence of
each partner to increase investment in
cancer prevention measures, to address
inequities in access to quality affordable
cancer treatment and care, and reduce
premature deaths from the disease.1,2
The Union for International Cancer
Control (UICC), as a founding member of
the NCD Alliance, recognises the power
of working together as a network united
in the goal of creating sustained global
action on non-communicable diseases
(NCDs). Through the NCD Alliance,
local, national and regional networks of
cancer experts and advocates have come
together to drive remarkable progress in
elevating cancer and other NCDs on the
global health and development agenda
and to stimulate collaborative advocacy,
action and accountability at the national
level.3
Other global networks, such as the
global coalition Cervical Cancer Action,
are accelerating progress by uniting
global health leaders and grass-roots
organisations from diverse backgrounds
to call on governments to invest in
cervical cancer prevention.4
Through
political mobilisation, coalitions of
partners can expand global support
to end cancer, engaging champions to
support a comprehensive approach to
cancer prevention and control.
1. UICC Advocacy Toolkit 2014. http://www.uicc.org/
advocacy/advocacy-resources
2. World Cancer Declaration. http://www.uicc.org/world-
cancer-declaration
3. NCD Alliance. http://www.ncdalliance.org/
4. Cervical Cancer Action. http://www.cervicalcanceraction.
org/home/home.php
WE CAN
JOIN FORCES TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Healthcare
professionals
Policy
makers
Sport leisure
groups
Uniting around common goals will drive action on all fronts - in
prevention, early detection, treatment and care - catalysing progress
towards achieving the World Cancer Declaration targets.

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
MAKE HEALTHY
LIFESTYLE CHOICES
I CAN

Everyone can take steps to reduce
their risk of cancer by choosing healthy
options including quitting smoking,
keeping physically active and choosing
healthy food and drinks.
Tobacco use is the single largest
preventable cause of cancer globally.
Quitting smoking will have a major
positive impact on an individual’s health
and that of their families and friends. The
good news is that quitting at any age is
beneficial, increasing life expectancy and
improving quality of life1
.
Individuals can also reduce their risk of
many common cancers by maintaining
a healthy weight, and making physical
activity part of their everyday lives2,3
.
Being overweight or obese increases
the risk of ten cancers - bowel, breast,
uterine, ovarian, pancreatic, oesophagus,
kidney, liver, advanced prostate and
gallbladder cancers4,5
. Specific changes
to a person’s diet can also make a
difference – for example, individuals can
limit their intake of red meat and avoid
processed meat.3
Alcohol is also strongly linked with
an increased risk of several cancers.
Reducing alcohol consumption decreases
the risk of cancers of the mouth, pharynx,
larynx, oesophagus, bowel, liver and
breast6
. Overall, more than a third of
common cancers could be prevented by
a healthy diet, being physically active and
maintaining a healthy body weight.
Reducing exposure to ultraviolet (UV)
radiation from the sun and other sources,
such as solariums, is also important to
reduce the risk of many skin cancers7
.
Everyone can make healthy lifestyle
choices to reduce their risk of cancer.
1. Jha P, Peto R. (2014). Global Effects of Smoking, of Quitting,
and of Taxing Tobacco. N Engl J Med. 370:60-8.
2. World Cancer Research Fund International. Our cancer
prevention recommendations. http://www.wcrf.org/int/
research-we-fund/our-cancer-prevention-recommendations
3. World Cancer Research Fund International. Link between
lifestyle and cancer risk. http://www.wcrf.org/int/link-
between-lifestyle-cancer-risk
4. World Cancer Research Fund International/American
Institute for Cancer Research. Continuous Update Project.
http://www.wcrf.org/int/cancer-facts-figures/link-between-
lifestyle-cancer-risk/cancers-linked-greater-body-fatness
5. World Cancer Research Fund International/American
Institute for Cancer Research. Continuous Update Project
Reports. http://www.wcrf.org/int/research-we-fund/
continuous-update-project-findings-reports
6. WHO. (2011). Global status report on alcohol and health.
7. SunSmart. UV and sun protection. http://www.sunsmart.
com.au/uv-sun-protection
I CAN
MAKE HEALTHY LIFESTYLE CHOICES
Individuals Patients
Carers

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
UNDERSTAND THAT EARLY
DETECTION SAVES LIVES
I CAN

Diagnosing cancer isn’t always easy – not
all cancers show early signs and symptoms
and other warning signs appear quite late
when the cancer is advanced.
However, for a number of cancers,
increasing awareness of signs and
symptoms and the importance of timely
treatment has been shown to improve
survival from cancer. This is because finding
cancer early almost always makes it easier
to treat or even cure. In fact, recent figures
from the United Kingdom for example,
have found that for eight common cancers
- bladder, bowel, breast, cervical, womb,
malignant melanoma, ovarian and testicular
cancers - survival is three times higher when
cancer is diagnosed early1
.
Public awareness campaigns and workplace
health and wellbeing initiatives are
important communication platforms to
raise awareness of the signs and symptoms
of cancer and encourage people to seek
help promptly. With the right information,
individuals can be encouraged to know
what’s normal for their body and to
recognise any unusual or persistent
changes2
. For example, a person can
become familiar with the look of their
skin so they can be aware of any changes
that might suggest a skin cancer, such as
recognising a spot that is growing and
changing in shape or size3
.
For some cancers, there is robust evidence
to support cancer screening. This means
testing apparently healthy people for signs
that could mean a cancer is developing.4
For
example, in many countries, national bowel
cancer screening programs are available
that use the Faecal Occult Blood Test, also
called FOBT, the most effective population
screening tool for detecting early signs of
bowel cancer. This test looks for hidden
traces of blood in a bowel motion (faeces)
in people without symptoms. It can help
detect bowel cancer in its early stages when
treatment is more likely to be successful and
the chances of survival are much better.5
Individuals can talk to their local health
professional to learn about what screening
programs are available for them.
Diagnosing cancer at its stages and
seeking timely care can save lives.
1. Cancer Research UK. Survival three times higher when
cancer is diagnosed early: po.st/PilTnn
2. Cancer Research UK. Key signs and symptoms of cancer.
http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-
symptoms#accordion_symptoms13
3. Cancer Council Australia. Skin Cancer Identification poster.
http://www.cancer.org.au/content/pdf/Factsheets/MS%20
214%20CCA%20MELANOMA%20POSTER%20V4%20.
pdf#_ga=1.144286962.678793188.1438205862
4. Cancer Research UK. Understanding cancer screening.
http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/screening/
understanding-cancer-screening
5. Cancer Council Australia. Bowel Cancer. http://www.
bowelcancer.org.au/index.php
I CAN
UNDERSTAND THAT EARLY
DETECTION SAVES LIVES
Individuals Healthcare
professionals

world
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worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
TAKE CONTROL OF
MY CANCER JOURNEY
I CAN

Many cancer patients and their families
describe feeling a loss of control of their
lives after a cancer diagnosis. Empowering
patients to do whatever they need to
regain a sense of control and preserve
their dignity throughout their cancer
journey can help them manage the
changes cancer brings to their lives.
People-centred care requires that all
patients have the education and support
they need to make decisions and participate
in their own care across the entire
cancer journey.1 Health professionals can
support this approach by providing clear
explanations of the available treatment
options, including the risks, benefits, and
uncertainty associated with the options to
ensure patients and their families are active
participants in decisions about their care,
and their treatment plan respects their
individual needs and preferences.1-4
Cancer patients receiving palliative or
supportive care may have particular needs
in finding relief from symptoms, pain, and
distress.5
Having access to people-centred,
dignity-conserving care where patients
take part in decisions, and all their care
needs are addressed - physical, emotional,
spiritual, and social - is essential to
delivering effective palliative or supportive
care.6,7
Addressing issues of body image can also
be an important way of regaining control
and preserving a degree of normality.
Accessing dedicated support services to
help manage the physical changes that can
occur during and after cancer treatment,
such as hair loss or speech impairment, can
improve confidence and the way patients
look and feel about themselves.7,8
Even if
others can’t see these changes, for example
urinary incontinence, seeking professional
help can rebuild self-esteem.
1. WHO (2016). Framework on integrated, people-centred
health services. A69/39 15 April 2016.
2. Kehl KL, Landrum MB, Arora NK, et al. (2015).
Association of actual and preferred decision roles with
patient-reported quality of care: shared decision making in
cancer care. JAMA Oncol. 1:50-8.
3. Politi MC, Studts JL, Hayslip JW. (2012). Shared Decision
Making in Oncology Practice: What Do Oncologists Need
to Know? Oncologist. 17:91-100
4. MacMillan Cancer Support. Making treatment decisions.
http://www.macmillan.org.uk/information-and-support/
treating/treatment-decisions
5. American Cancer Society. A Guide to Palliative or
Supportive Care. What is palliative care? http://www.
cancer.org/treatment/treatmentsandsideeffects/
palliativecare/supportive-care
6. WHO (2014). Strengthening of palliative care as a
component of integrated treatment throughout the life
course. A67/31 4 April 2014.
7. Managing body image difficulties of adult cancer patients:
Lessons from available research. Cancer. 120:633–41.
8. Macmillan Cancer Support. Changes in body image. http://
www.macmillan.org.uk/information-and-support/coping/
changes-to-appearance-and-body-image
Healthcare
professionals
People living with cancer can take control of their cancer journey by
being empowered to be active participants in decisions about their
care, having their choices respected and their needs met.
I CAN
TAKE CONTROL OF MY CANCER JOURNEY
Patients
Carers

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
LOVE, AND BE LOVED
I CAN

Cancer affects everyone in a patient’s life
in different ways. Partners, families and
friends can take steps to work together
through the challenges of cancer and its
treatment so that no one faces the disease
alone.
There is no ‘right way’ for a cancer patient
and their partner to cope with cancer, but
there are actions that couples can take to
support each other through this challenging
time.1
For example, keeping the lines of
communication open and taking time to talk
about feelings and difficult topics such as
the fear of recurrence or financial concerns
can be helpful in dealing with the emotional
impact.2
For many, one of the longest lasting and
most devastating consequences of a cancer
diagnosis is the impact on sexual health
and wellbeing.3
Both men and women can
experience changes to sexual function
and sexuality after cancer treatment.4
Changes may be associated with side
effects of cancer treatment – sometimes
these are short-term such as fatigue or
pain, or for others there may be long-term
effects, such as erectile dysfunction due
to some treatments for prostate cancer.
Seeking information and assistance from
health professionals and cancer support
services can help cancer patients to adjust
to changes in sexual function and assist
couples to renegotiate sex and intimacy.5
Friends and families can also play a major
role in providing emotional, social and
practical support. Spending time with a
person, being willing to talk about their
experiences and offering assistance, even
with small tasks, can all be enormously
helpful.6
For some people, support may be
needed over many years after the initial
diagnosis as they continue to live with the
physical and emotional impact of cancer
even when treatment is finished.
1. Macmillan Cancer Support. Relationships – You and
your Partner. http://www.macmillan.org.uk/information-
andsupport/coping/relationships/you-and-your-partner
2. Livestrong. Communicating with your partner. http://
www.livestrong.org/we-can-help/preparing-yourself/
communicating-with-your-partner/
3. Ussher JM, Perz J Gilbert, E. (2012). Changes to sexual
well-being and intimacy after breast cancer. Cancer
nursing, 35, 456-65.
4. Girgis A, Lambert S, Johnson C, et al. (2013). Physical,
Psychosocial, Relationship, and Economic Burden of Caring
for People With Cancer: A Review. J Oncol Practice, 9,
197-202
5. Perz J, Ussher JM, Gilbert et al (2014). Feeling well and
talking about sex. BMC Cancer 14:228.
6. American Cancer Society. How to be a friend to
someone with cancer. http://www.cancer.org/treatment/
understandingyourdiagnosis/talkingaboutcancer/how-to-
be-a-friend-to-someone-with-cancer
I CAN
LOVE, AND BE LOVED
Patients
Carers
For a person living with cancer, strong emotional support and loving
relationships with partners, friends and families can make a big
difference in their life.

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
ASK FOR SUPPORT
I CAN

Maintaining social support networks
and talking about cancer can be
important strategies for coping with the
social and emotional impact of cancer,
both in the short and long term.
This is true for both the person living
with cancer and their carer(s). Support
can come from many sources – partners,
friends, family, colleagues, healthcare
professionals and counsellors – with
some people choosing to join self-help
or support groups. Support groups
can provide a caring and supportive
environment for people living with cancer
to express their feelings and reduce
anxiety and fear1
.
Sometimes the people at work make up
another vital network of support. Talking
about cancer with colleagues as well as
keeping in touch with them during work
absences can have a positive impact on
recovery2
.
Cancer caregiving can also have an
enormous influence on both physical and
mental health. Carers – most commonly
partners, family members or friends -
receive little preparation, information or
support to carry out their vital role3
. Many
carers put their own needs and feelings
aside to focus on the person with cancer,
and as a consequence may experience
emotional distress and social isolation4
.
Recognising the challenges of looking
after someone with cancer and seeking
support can have wide-ranging benefits
for coping and quality of life5
.
People living with cancer and their
caregivers can ask for support to help
them cope with cancer.
1. Ussher J, Butow P, Wain G. et al. (2005). Research into
the Relationship Between Type of Organisation and
Effectiveness of Support Groups for People with Cancer
and their Carers. http://staging.cancercouncil.com.au/
wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Executive-Summary-for-CSG-
research-2005.pdf.
2. Macmillan Cancer Support. Work and Cancer.
http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Cancerinformation/
Livingwithandaftercancer/Workandcancer/Workandcancer.
aspx
3. Northouse LL, Katapodi M, Song L, et al. (2010).
Interventions with family caregivers of cancer patients:
meta-analysis of randomized trials. CA Cancer J Clin, 60,
317-339.
4. NBCF. (2013). So I Bit down on the Leather: Ending the
Silence. Sydney: National Breast Cancer Foundation
5. Looking after someone with cancer. http://be.macmillan.
org.uk/be/s-330-information-for-carers.aspx
I CAN
ASK FOR SUPPORT
Patients
Carers

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
I CAN MAKE MY
VOICE HEARD
I CAN

People living with cancer and their
families, friends and caregivers can be
powerful advocates for others dealing
with the disease.
By sharing their own story, cancer survivors
can help others by reducing the fear and
stigma around the disease that often deter
others from seeking care and support.1 For
example, the impact assessment of an anti-
stigma campaign in Mexico that centred
on giving cancer survivors a platform to tell
their own story, showed that 76% of people
exposed to the campaign learned something
new about cancer and 70% said they now
talked more openly about the disease.
Participants also commented that they were
more supportive of a person living with
cancer because of what they learned.2
Individuals can also be part of the
wider conversation on cancer policy
through engaging in public campaigns,
communicating with decision-makers, and
joining with consumer support groups to
ensure the patient’s voice is heard. In this
way, cancer patients and their families
can inspire change by helping define the
issues that matter to them and advocate for
measures to address these issues.3
The parents, families and caregivers of
children and adolescents with cancer have
a particular role to play in advocating for
their rights to be protected, pushing for
equitable and affordable access to quality
cancer care and making others aware of the
particular challenges faced by children and
adolescents with cancer.4
1. LIVESTRONG. (2011). Cancer Stigma and Silence Around
the World: A LIVESTRONG Report. Austin: LIVESTRONG.
http://www.livestrong.org/What-We-Do/Our-Actions/
Programs-Partnerships/Anti-Stigma-Campaign
2. Results from LIVESTRONG Mexico anti-cancer stigma
campaign. http://blog.livestrong.org/2012/08/27/results-
from-livestrong-mexico-anti-cancer-stigma-campaign/
3. Cancer Voices Australia. http://www.cancervoicesaustralia.
org/
4. Childhood Cancer International. http://www.
childhoodcancerinternational.org/
By making their voices heard, individuals can be powerful agents
of influence and change for all people affected by cancer.
We encourage you to make your voice heard and share your story
at worldcancerday.org/share-your-story
I CAN
I CAN MAKE MY VOICE HEARD
Patients
Carers

world
cancerday.org
worldcancerday.org
#WorldCancerDay
RETURN TO WORK
I CAN

Many people living with cancer want
to return to work. They mention both
financial and emotional reasons for
going back to work, with a job restoring
normality, stability, social contact and
income1
.
Most often, people living with the disease
need their employers to make some
allowances to support them to get back to
work successfully2,3
. Talking about cancer
to their employers can help ensure that
appropriate adjustments are put in place
for the person living with the disease or
their caregivers, such as changes in tasks
or accommodation of different physical
needs, e.g. adjusting for changes in mobility
or physical functioning such as difficulty
with stairs. A phased-return to work
may also be possible so that a person is
supported to ease back into work. Often,
the types of changes required vary over
time and continuing open and honest
conversations with an employer about what
is and is not possible in terms of flexible
work arrangements and job adjustments is
critically important to avoid distress for all.
It is also important for people with cancer
who want to return to work to understand
their rights. In many countries, employers
have a legal obligation to make reasonable
adjustments at work for people living
with cancer and to ensure they are not
at a disadvantage compared to other
employees4,5
.
1. Macmillan Cancer Support. Work and Cancer.
http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Cancerinformation/
Livingwithandaftercancer/Workandcancer/Workandcancer.
aspx
2. Cancer Council NSW. Working during cancer treatment and
recovery. http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/31271/b1000/
cancer-work-you-47/working-during-cancer-treatment-andr
ecovery/#dMHmPfc29xMVaWJ6.99
3. Canadian Partnership Against Cancer. (2012). Return to
Work Concerns Faced by People Dealing with Cancer and
Caregivers. http://www.cancerview.ca/idc/groups/public/
documents/webcontent/rtw_literature_review.pdf
4. UICC, Bupa (2015). Working with cancer: Supporting
employees living with cancer to return to work. http://www.
iccp-portal.org/resources/uicc-bupa-–-working-cancer-
supporting-employees-living-cancer-return-work
5. McCabe Centre for Law Cancer, Cancer Council Victoria.
(2013). Making the law work better for people affected by
cancer. Melbourne: McCabe Centre for Law Cancer.
With the right support, people living with cancer can return to
work successfully.
I CAN
RETURN TO WORK
Workplaces

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