Today is known around our planet as World Cancer Day.  Its a day when health organizations all over the world are sending the message that eradication of cancer must be a global health priority.  It is estimated that more than 7.5 Million people will die from cancer worldwide this year alone.  The Empire State Building in New York City will be lit in blue and orange to commemorate the occasion, in the official colors of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) which organizes World Cancer Day.

Part of the message the UICC wants to deliver is that many myths and misunderstanding exist with regard to cancer.  Specifically the emphasis is on these 4:

• Myth 1: Cancer is just a health issue. Truth: Cancer is not just a health issue. It has wide-reaching social, economic, development, and human rights implications.
• Myth 2: Cancer is a disease of the wealthy, elderly and developed countries. Truth: Cancer is a global epidemic. It affects all ages and socio-economic groups, with developing countries bearing a disproportionate burden.
• Myth 3: Cancer is a death sentence. Truth: Many cancers that were once considered a death sentence can now be cured and for many more people, their cancer can be treated effectively.
• Myth 4: Cancer is my fate. Truth: With the right strategies, a third of the most common cancers can be prevented.

Cancer will affect everyone of us in some profound way during out lifetimes.  Visit www.cancer.org to learn more about the activities of the UICC and the American Cancer Society in their effort to defeat cancer.  14 Million cancer survivors are celebrating birthdays this year thanks in part to the American Cancer Society.