World Cancer Day falls on February 4, 2026, and this year’s theme—"United by Unique"—reflects both the magnitude of the challenge and the hope for progress. Cancer remains one of our most difficult health battles. The statistics speak for themselves. In 2022, about 20 million people were newly diagnosed with cancer worldwide, and 9.7 million lives were lost to the disease. By 2050, that number is expected to reach 35 million new cases every year—a 75% increase, mainly because people are living longer and populations continue to expand.

Looking at the United States, in 2025 there will be over 2 million new cancer cases and 618,000 deaths. Nevertheless, there’s been progress—death rates continue to fall. Since 1991, nearly 4.5 million lives have been saved due to fewer smokers, better early detection, and improved treatments.

India’s Growing Challenge

India faces significant challenges of its own. In 2022, there were about 1.46 million cancer cases in the country. By 2025, this is expected to climb to 1.57 million—almost a 28% increase since 2015. The average Indian has an 11% lifetime risk of developing cancer, but some regions are hit harder. In Mizoram, for instance, the lifetime risk is over 21% for men and nearly 19% for the women—double the national average.

Large States Carry the Burden

Large states like Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Bihar, Assam, and Madhya Pradesh carry the greatest cancer burden. Among men, lung cancer is projected to be the most common with more than 81,000 new cases in 2025, but overall, oral cancer remains the top cancer for men—over 11% of all male cancer cases, with 80% directly linked to tobacco use. For women, breast cancer is the leading type, with nearly 233,000 expected cases. Urban women are at much higher risk: one in 22 will develop breast cancer, compared to just one in 60 rural women. The disparity in healthcare access is clear.

Prevention: The Power We Have

One fact stands out—around 40% of cancers are preventable. Prevention is within our grasp. Changing our habits and reducing harmful exposures could save millions of lives.

Tobacco remains the biggest threat. It causes up to 30% of all cancer deaths globally and 80% of oral cancers in India. But quitting brings immediate benefits—the body begins to heal right away, and cancer risk drops.

Excess body weight also plays a major role. Being overweight or obese increases the risk for 15 types of cancer. In the United States, about one in five cancer cases are related to obesity, unhealthy diets, lack of exercise, and alcohol. Obesity raises cancer risk by promoting chronic inflammation, disrupting insulin, and altering certain hormone levels.

Physical inactivity contributes as well. About 3% of all cancers are due to a sedentary lifestyle. The positive news is that high levels of physical activity can cut colon cancer risk in half, and even just 15 to 20 minutes of vigorous exercise each week can reduce the risk of death by up to 40%.

Diet is another major factor. Poor eating habits are responsible for 30–35% of cancer deaths. Too few whole grains, fruits, nuts, and seeds—and too many sugary drinks and processed meats—increase cancer risk.

Alcohol adds to the danger, especially when combined with tobacco. The risk rises sharply for cancers of the mouth, throat, and esophagus.

Infections cause nearly 18% of cancers globally. This varies by region—less than 10% in wealthier countries, but up to 25% in Africa. HPV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are key culprits, but vaccines to prevent them already exist.

40% of Cancers Are Preventable

The most compelling aspect of this challenge is that 40-60% of cancer deaths could be prevented through lifestyle modification. So, while cancer is a huge challenge, we are not helpless. The way forward is clear: prevention, early detection, and people-centred care. The opportunity to save millions of lives is within our reach.

This World Cancer Day, let us commit not just to treating cancer, but to preventing it. Not just to extending life, but to improving its quality. Not just to advancing medicine, but to advancing equity. Together, united by our common purpose while honouring each person's unique journey, we can bend the cancer curve and create a healthier future for all.

The evidence is clear, the path is known, and the imperative is urgent. The question is whether we have the collective will to act?