World Cancer Day is February 4th, 2009

February 4, 2009

 PRESS RELEASE 02/04/2009 | For Immediate Release

 by Arjumand Thompson

WASHINGTON, DC

Dear Subscribers -

Cancer is a general term for a body of diseases that are characterized by the rapid and unchecked division of abnormal cells. There are approximately 8.5 million deaths attributed to cancer every year*, with the most significant burden of disease in developed countries. But a significant increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer is occurring in the developing world, adding new killers to the already-heavy disease burden of infectious diseases afflicting poorer nations.
 
Ironically, new found prosperity and the trappings of a more modern lifestyle have helped cancer rates to rise dramatically worldwide. Efforts to decrease poverty levels and modernize have led to a catch-22 situation in much of the developing world. Many countries have seen reduced poverty levels and increased industrialization only to now experience changes to environment, lifestyle and diets that are more conducive to cancer. These lifestyle changes include reduced activity levels, increases in "fast-food" consumption, and increased tobacco usage as smoking is becoming more commonly marketed as an affordable luxury. Development, although necessary and desirable for a higher standard of living, has also brought more environmental and air pollutants.
 
This February 4th marks global efforts to advance cancer research and focus on methods to minimize the global burden of disease. Visit the sites below to see some organizations around the world that are helping in the fight against cancer on World Cancer Day 2009.  

Related Disease/Condition:
Breast Cancer
Cancers
Cervical Cancer
Colorectal Cancer
Lung Cancer
Noncommunicable Diseases
Ovarian Cancer
Tobacco Addiction