This week marked World Cancer Day on February 4, a reminder that cancer is more than a diagnosis, it is a global challenge shaped by deeply personal experiences. At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), this observance provided an opportunity to reflect on progress and encourage our community to take meaningful steps toward prevention, early detection, and compassionate care.
Why It Matters
According to WorldCancerDay.org, World Cancer Day has been recognized since the year 2000, and its purpose is to raise awareness, encourage prevention and mobilize action to reduce the global impact of cancer. Each year, communities across the world come together to highlight that everyone has a role to play in the fight against cancer.
The Importance of Access
Cancer does not affect everyone equally. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines health equity in cancer as ensuring everyone has a fair opportunity to prevent cancer, detect it early, and receive proper treatment. However, many people face barriers such as low income, lack of health insurance, or limited access to healthcare services, which can delay screening and treatment.
Early detection matters, and screening tests can find cancers like breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancer at stages when treatment is most effective.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that cancer remains a growing burden, with millions of new cases each year and significant gaps in screening, early diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care in many regions. These challenges reinforce the importance of prevention, access, and community-based support.
How to Help Prevent Cancer and Live Healthier
While not all cancers can be prevented, the CDC reports that people can lower their risk of developing many types of cancer through everyday choices:
- Avoid tobacco in all forms
- Protect your skin from the sun
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay active
Prevention also starts early. The CDC highlights steps parents and caregivers can take to lower their children’s cancer risk later in life, including:
- Practicing sun safety
- Vaccinating against HPV
- Encouraging physical activity and healthy weight
- Teaching awareness about the risks of smoking
World Cancer Day reminds us that progress happens when prevention, early detection, equitable access and compassionate care come together. At UMC El Paso, we stand with our community in recognizing that behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a story that matters.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call (915) 521-7979 today to schedule an appointment, or visit umcelpaso.org to learn more.
