National Cancer Awareness Day 2025 – Importance, History, and Preventive Measures

Every year on November 7, India observes National Cancer Awareness Day to spread awareness about the importance of early detection, lifestyle modification, and timely treatment of cancer. Initiated in 2014 by Dr. Harsh Vardhan, then Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, this observance aims to reduce the growing burden of cancer in India through public education and proactive healthcare measures. The day coincides with the birth anniversary of Marie Curie, the Nobel Prize-winning sci

Why National Cancer Awareness Day is Important

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally, claiming over 1 crore lives in 2020. In India, the disease continues to grow at an alarming rate due to changing lifestyles, increased pollution, and tobacco use.

The purpose of observing National Cancer Awareness Day is to:

• Promote public awareness about common cancers and their symptoms.
• Encourage early diagnosis and timely treatment.
• Educate people about preventive lifestyle measures.
• Strengthen national health policies on cancer prevention and control.

Various government bodies, hospitals, NGOs, and healthcare professionals conduct free screening camps, seminars, workshops, and awareness drives across the country on this day.

Theme of National Cancer Awareness Day 2025

For 2025, India’s cancer awareness initiatives align with the World Cancer Day global campaign theme, “United by Unique.” This theme underscores the individuality of every cancer journey while celebrating the unity and collective mission to reduce the disease’s global impact.

Focus Areas for 2025

• Personalised Care: Encouraging patient-centric treatment and emotional support.
• Sharing Survivor Stories: Highlighting resilience and inspiring others through real experiences.
• Community Engagement: Schools, hospitals, and NGOs hosting awareness drives and survivor meet-ups.
• Empowerment Through Education: Promoting knowledge about prevention, early detection, and treatment access.

Across India, health institutions, NGOs, and schools are conducting screening drives, awareness workshops, and storytelling campaigns to spread this message of unity, hope, and empowerment.

History of National Cancer Awareness Day

National Cancer Awareness Day was first introduced in September 2014 by Dr. Harsh Vardhan, then Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare. The date, 7 November, was chosen to commemorate the birth anniversary of Marie Curie (born in 1867), whose discoveries in radioactivity paved the way for modern cancer treatment through radiation therapy. The initiative aims to create widespread awareness about cancer’s causes, symptoms, and available treatments — empowering citizens to make informed health decisions.

Cancer in India: Key Facts and Statistics

According to the GLOBCAN 2020 Report,

• New cancer cases (India): 13.24 lakh
• Cancer deaths (India): 8.51 lakh
• Common cancers in men: Oral cavity (16.2%), lung (8%), stomach (6.3%)
• Common cancers in women: Breast (26.3%), cervix (18.3%), ovary (6.7%)

There are an estimated 20–25 lakh active cancer patients in India at any given time, with 7 lakh new cases every year. Unfortunately, two-thirds of these are diagnosed in incurable stages, reducing survival chances significantly.

Cancer Prevention Tips

Most cancers are preventable through lifestyle modifications and early health interventions. Follow these cancer prevention tips,

• Avoid tobacco in all forms — smoking, chewing, or passive exposure.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly.
• Protect your skin from harmful UV radiation and use sunscreen.
• Get vaccinated against HPV and Hepatitis B to prevent cervical and liver cancers.
• Undergo regular screening for breast, cervical, oral, and colorectal cancers.

Reduce exposure to carcinogens at workplaces and in the environment.

Awareness Campaigns & Initiatives

Every year, the Government of India collaborates with,

• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW)
• Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
• National Cancer Institute (Jhajjar)
• Non-profit organisations and hospitals like AIIMS, Tata Memorial Hospital, and PACE Hospitals

These institutions conduct nationwide campaigns that include,

• Cancer screening drives in rural and urban areas.
• Workshops and public lectures on healthy habits.
• Digital campaigns to reach young audiences through social media.
• Free consultation clinics for early detection and awareness.

Quick Facts to Remember

• Date: 7 November 2025
• Started by: Dr. Harsh Vardhan (2014)
• Commemorates: Birth anniversary of Marie Curie
• Purpose: Awareness about prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer
• India’s Cancer Burden: 13.24 lakh new cases, 8.51 lakh deaths (GLOBCAN 2020)
• Theme: “Early Detection Saves Lives” (suggested awareness message for 2025)