April 15 marks the beginning of China’s National Anti-Cancer Week, a nationwide initiative aimed at promoting knowledge and awareness about cancer prevention and treatment. As cancer remains a leading cause of death globally, China is intensifying its efforts to combat the disease and improve survival rates.
Striving for Higher Survival Rates
China is working towards raising the overall five-year survival rate for cancer patients to 46.6% by 2030. Significant progress has already been made, with the rate climbing from 40.5% in 2015 to 43.7% in 2022, according to the National Health Commission (NHC).
Continuous monitoring by the National Cancer Center (NCC) from 2000 through 2018 has revealed an average annual decrease of 1.3% in the age-standardized mortality rate from malignant tumors across the country. Despite these positive trends, the NCC estimated that China added 4.82 million new cases of malignant tumors in 2022 alone. The most common types include lung, colorectal, thyroid, liver, and gastric cancers.
Tips for Cancer Prevention
While cancer is a complex disease with multiple contributing factors, there are proactive steps individuals can take to reduce their risk. Experts from the NHC suggest that up to 40% of cancers might be preventable through lifestyle changes and controlling risk factors. Here are some recommendations:
- Adopt a Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of certain cancers.
- Maintain Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercise helps control weight and can lower the risk of various types of cancer.
- Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol Consumption: Tobacco use is a leading cause of cancer worldwide. Limiting alcohol intake can also reduce cancer risk.
- Protect Yourself from the Sun: Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
- Get Vaccinated: Vaccinations against hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV) can help prevent liver and cervical cancers.
- Regular Screenings and Check-Ups: Early detection through screenings such as mammograms and colonoscopies can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Global Implications
China’s efforts to combat cancer have significant implications for global health. By sharing knowledge and strategies, other countries can also benefit from successful prevention and treatment methods. As cancer knows no borders, international collaboration is key to reducing the global burden of the disease.
As National Anti-Cancer Week unfolds, individuals are encouraged to educate themselves and take proactive measures to safeguard their health. Small lifestyle changes can make a substantial difference in reducing cancer risk and improving overall well-being.
Reference(s):
Anti-Cancer Week: What can I do to keep tumors away from me?
cgtn.com
