National Cancer Awareness Day: Key Facts, Historical Background, Major Types, Causes and Risk Factors

Why in news?

National Cancer Awareness Day is observed on 7 November 2026 in India to highlight the growing burden of cancer and the importance of early detection, prevention and timely treatment.

Key Facts

Historical Background

• National Cancer Awareness Day was first observed in India in 2014.
• It was announced by the Union Health Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan.
• The date, 7 November, was selected because it marks the birth anniversary of Marie Curie, who was born on 7 November 1867.
• Marie Curie was a pioneering physicist and chemist known for her ground breaking research on radioactivity.
• Her discoveries of polonium and radium contributed significantly to the development of radiation-based medical applications, including cancer treatment.

What is Cancer?

• Cancer is a group of diseases characterised by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body.
• Normally, cells grow, divide and die in a controlled manner. However, when genetic changes disrupt this process, abnormal cells may multiply uncontrollably and form a mass known as a tumour.
• Some cancers, such as leukaemia, do not generally form solid tumours.

Major Types of Cancer

Major Causes and Risk Factors of Cancer

• Tobacco consumption: Oral, lung, throat and other cancers
• Alcohol consumption: Liver, breast, oral and colorectal cancers
• Unhealthy diet: Increased risk of colorectal and other cancers
• Physical inactivity: Increases the risk of certain cancers
• Obesity: Associated with several types of cancer
• HPV infection: Major cause of cervical cancer
• Hepatitis B and C: Associated with liver cancer
• Air pollution: Increases the risk of lung cancer
• Excessive UV radiation: Increases the risk of skin cancer
• Genetic factors: Can increase susceptibility to certain cancers

Cancer Burden in India

• According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-National Cancer Registry Programme:

• Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in India.
• Oral cancer is a major concern, particularly because of tobacco consumption.
• Lung cancer is strongly associated with smoking and other environmental exposures.
• Cervical cancer remains an important public health concern among women.
• Delayed diagnosis and unequal access to treatment contribute to the cancer burden.

Importance of Early Detection and Screening

• Awareness: Recognising early symptoms and understanding risk factors
• Screening: Identifying possible cancer or precancerous changes before symptoms appear
• Diagnosis: Confirming the disease through appropriate medical investigations

Common cancer screening methods

• Breast Cancer: Clinical breast examination and mammography, where appropriate
• Cervical Cancer: HPV testing, Pap smear and other recommended screening methods
• Oral Cancer: Visual examination of the oral cavity
• Colorectal Cancer: Stool-based tests and colonoscopy, depending on risk and guidelines
• Lung Cancer: Low-dose CT screening for eligible high-risk individuals

Government Initiatives for Cancer Prevention and Control in India

A. National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD)

• Implemented under the National Health Mission (NHM).
• Focuses on the prevention and control of major non-communicable diseases.
• Promotes population-based screening for common cancers.
• Individuals aged 30 years and above are targeted for screening for oral, breast and cervical cancers.
• Encourages health education, early diagnosis and timely referral.

B. National Programme for Cancer Control

• The National Cancer Control Programme was launched in 1975.
• It was subsequently integrated into the broader programme for prevention and control of non-communicable diseases.
• Its objective has been to strengthen cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment infrastructure.

C. Tertiary Care Cancer Centre Scheme

• Aims to strengthen specialised cancer treatment facilities.
• Supports the development of State Cancer Institutes (SCIs) and Tertiary Care Cancer Centres (TCCCs).
• Focuses on improving access to advanced cancer diagnosis and treatment.

D. Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)

• Provides health coverage to eligible beneficiaries for secondary and tertiary hospitalisation.
• Helps reduce the financial burden of hospital-based treatment.
• Covers eligible cancer-related treatment packages under the scheme.

E. Ayushman Arogya Mandirs

• Strengthen primary healthcare services.
• Promote preventive healthcare and community-level awareness.
• Facilitate screening, early identification and referral for common cancers.

F. National Cancer Grid (NCG)

• Established in 2012.
• Brings together cancer centres, research institutions and healthcare organisations.
• Promotes uniform standards of cancer care, research, education and training.
• Aims to improve the quality and accessibility of cancer treatment across India.

Major Challenges in Cancer Control in India

• Late Diagnosis: Many patients approach healthcare facilities at advanced stages.
• High Treatment Costs: Cancer treatment can impose a substantial financial burden on families.
• Lack of Awareness: People may ignore early symptoms or avoid medical consultation.
• Unequal Healthcare Access: Rural and remote areas often have limited specialised facilities.
• Tobacco Consumption: Smoking and smokeless tobacco contribute significantly to cancer risk.
• Shortage of Specialists: Unequal distribution of oncologists and trained healthcare professionals.

International Perspective: Global Cancer Control

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