World Cancer Day 2024: An effort to 'Close The Care Gap'

World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4, serves as a poignant reminder of the global battle against cancer. It holds immense importance as a day that celebrates many survivors' triumphs over the disease.
This year, the focus extends beyond awareness, shifting towards the multi-year campaign of 'Close the Care Gap (2022-24). This initiative aims to make a lasting impact by investing more energy and time to bring about a positive change. 

A multi-year campaign
The theme for World Cancer Day 2024 resonates with the commitment to fostering a more equitable healthcare landscape. The objective is to illuminate the disparities in access to cancer detection, treatment, and support services globally.

Let us delve into the intricate world of cancer screening, staging and prognosis, not just to empower individuals but to advocate for a more equitable healthcare landscape where everyone has the chance to fight cancer with dignity and hope.

Screening methods: Bridging the divide
Early detection remains the cornerstone in the fight against cancer. Screening methods play a pivotal role in identifying cancer at its nascent stage, providing a window of opportunity for effective treatment. However, access to these methods is not always equal. We must advocate for equitable distribution of resources and raise awareness about the importance of overcoming cultural barriers and social stigmas to ensure everyone has the opportunity for early detection.

Staging of cancers: Ensuring universality
Upon diagnosis, cancers are staged to determine the extent of their spread within the body. This crucial process aids in devising the appropriate treatment plan and predicting prognosis. Yet, access to sophisticated staging techniques and specialised specialists may not be universally available. We must strive to bridge this gap and ensure everyone receives accurate and timely staging regardless of their background or circumstance.

Prognosis disparities: Addressing inequities
The prognosis for cancer patients is highly dependent on factors such as cancer type, stage at diagnosis, individual patient characteristics, and, unfortunately, access to quality healthcare. We must acknowledge and address the inequities that contribute to poorer outcomes for certain populations.

Stage 1: Promoting early detection for all
While early-stage cancers often offer a more favourable prognosis, disparities in access to screening and early diagnosis can significantly impact these statistics. Let's work towards ensuring everyone has the opportunity for early detection, regardless of their background, socioeconomic status, or geographic location.

Stage 2: Closing the gap with advanced diagnostics
Survival rates in stage 2 cancers further highlight the need for closing the care gap. By increasing access to advanced diagnostics and quality treatment options, we can improve outcomes for all individuals battling cancer.

Stage 3: Advocating for specialised care
Stage 3 cancers underscore the urgency of equitable access to specialized care and innovative treatment modalities. We must advocate for research and development focused on tackling late-stage cancers and extending life expectancy for all patients.

Sage 4: Providing hope through palliative care
While challenges remain in stage 4 cancers, advancements in palliative care and research offer hope. Ensuring everyone has access to these advancements, regardless of their background, is crucial for improving their quality of life and providing dignity during their journey.

As we mark World Cancer Day 2024, let us dedicate ourselves not only to raising awareness but to actively Closing the Care Gap. By advocating for equitable access to screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support services, we can empower individuals around the world to fight cancer with resilience and hope. Together, we can build a cancer-free future where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.
(Dr Deepthi TR is a specialist in Early Cancer Detection and Prevention at Oncure Bio Solutions. Kannur)