World Cancer Day is celebrated annually on the 4^th of February to deepen the understanding of this terrible disease. This year the campaign is focusing on reducing stigma and dispelling myths about cancer with the tagline, “Debunk the myths”.

The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) began World Cancer Day in 2008, in order to improve general knowledge of cancer, with a goal  of significantly reducing illness and death caused by cancer by 2020.

This year the UICC will focus on dispelling damaging myths and misconceptions about cancer. The organization aims to improve knowledge about cancer and dismiss these 4 myths:

• Myth 1: We don’t need to talk about cancer.

Truth: While cancer can be a difficult topic to address, particularly in some cultures and settings, dealing with the disease openly can improve outcomes at an individual, community and policy level. The American Cancer Society has lots of pointers for talking about cancer, whether it’s with friends and family, your doctor, or others.

•  Myth 2: Cancer… There are no signs or symptoms.

Truth: For many cancers, there are warning signs and symptoms and the benefits of early detection are indisputable.

•  Myth 3: There is nothing I can do about cancer.

Truth: There is a lot that can be done at an individual, community and policy level, and with the right strategies, a third of the most common cancers can be prevented, according to the UICC. Avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy body weight, eating right and getting enough exercise, and getting appropriate cancer screening tests can all make a significant difference.

•  Myth 4: I don’t have the right to cancer care.

Truth: All people have the right to access proven and effective cancer treatments and services on equal terms, and without suffering hardship as a consequence. The American Cancer Society is committed to fighting cancer worldwide.