image from http://www.oncolink.org/
Today marks #WorldCancerDay a global event that takes place every year on February 4th. Founded by the Union for International Cancer Control by the Paris Charter at the World Summit Against Cancer for the New Millenium in Paris on February 4th, 2000. The initiative for this significant day is to unite the world’s population in the fight against cancer, raise awareness and educate through social media about this disease.
For survivors and those currently fighting this battle, World Cancer Day is everyday. There shouldn’t just be one day to commemorate or dispel myths about cancer. Jennifer Merschdorf, Young Survivors Coalition CEO states in a blog post that “many different groups hope that this day will be a day to call attention to the disease itself – but I would be surprised if there was an adult on this planet that has not heard of cancer – awareness of the disease is not going to stop people from dying.” The intent of the UICC with World Cancer Day is effective with spreading awareness, and building a community. Conversation and awareness is the first step to prevention that leads to results.
The Breast Cancer Fund advocates prevention by making little tweaks in our everyday lifestyles. Such as knowing what goes into your beauty and personal care products by simple research. According to the Breast Cancer Fund, exposure to toxic Phthalates is in decline, and consumer demand for safe cosmetics is the leading factor. “Kudos to the millions of conscientious consumers whose concerns about phthalates in kids’ toys and cosmetics are now being credited with helping to decrease the levels of phthalates in people,” said Janet Nudelman, policy director at the Breast Cancer Fund and co-founder of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, established in 2004 out of concerns about the presence of phthalates in personal care products. Phthalates are industrial chemicals, that soften plastics that are used to make common consumer products, from fragrances, plastics, cosmetics and building materials. It is an endocrine-disrupting chemical, exposure has been linked to early puberty, a risk factor for breast cancer, amongst numerous other side effects.
So, today on #WorldCancerDay we suggest that you not only take part in the conversation, but look within your own home and take prevention into your own hands.