Introduction – National Cancer Awareness Day is observed on November 7 every year to spread awareness about cancer, which is the second leading cause of death all around the world. This international day marks the birth anniversary of Madame Curie who was a prominent scientist that is remembered for her great effort and important contribution to fight against cancer. Madame Curie is admired for her invention of radium and polonium. She also works on the development of radiotherapy for the treatment of cancer.

History – In September 2014, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, former health minister, was declared that November 7 is observed as a National Cancer Awareness Day to raise awareness about early detection of any type of cancer and avoid leading cancer-causing lifestyles. National Cancer Control Program was introduced in the year 1975 is to establish facilities for cancer treatment in India. As per World Health Organization, cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide for around 10 million fatalities in the year 2020. Lung cancer, colon cancer, breast cancer, and stomach cancer are some of the most common causes of death in the year 2020.

Significance – There is about 1.1 million new cases of cancer are reported annually in India. The probability of survival is very less as two-thirds of the cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage of cancer in our country. cancer of the oral cavity and lung cancer are the main cause of death in male people whereas breast cancer may occur in females.

 As per an estimate, a woman died every 8 minutes due to cervical cancer in our country. It is important to note that early detection of cancer in the initial stages may lower the number of deaths and also reduce the cost of treatment by a great amount as compared with a treatment of an advanced stage. People are encouraged to visit hospitals for free screening on this day. To observe this day, the distribution of information booklets is to spread awareness for preventing cancer about early symptoms.