More than 100 000 people are diagnosed with cancer every year and according to statistics more than eight million people die from cancer every year. This is a bleak fact but this can change if awareness and education are heightened, after all cancer is ‘not beyond us’. This is the theme for World Cancer Day, which will be observed today, Wednesday, February 4.

The Cancer Association of South African (Cansa) has embraced the theme ‘not beyond us’ by focussing on taking a positive and proactive approach to the fight against cancer, highlighting that solutions do exist regarding cancer care and early detection and that they are within reach.”We want to ensure fewer people develop cancer and that cancer survivors are successfully treated and offered care, support, guidance and advice to all those affected by cancer to ensure a better quality of life.

We know that cancer can have a serious impact on a person’s emotional, physical and mental state – so by understanding and responding to that impact – the quality of life for patients, their loved ones and caregivers can be maximised,” said Elize Joubert, Cansa’s Acting CEO. To show your support on World Cancer Day, visit a cancer survivor, give them support or attend one of the Open Days, which will be held at 30 Cansa Care Centres countrywide.