By: Assoc. Prof. Dr Felicia Chung (Department of Medical Sciences, Sunway University) and Dr Lau Tze Pheng (Department of Biological Sciences, Sunway University)
World Cancer Day, which falls on the 4 February every year, is often taken as an opportune moment to reflect on the progress made in the fight against cancer, celebrate advancements in medical research, and acknowledge the strides taken in cancer prevention and treatment. The theme for 2024 World Cancer Day is “Closing the Care Gap” in recognition of the pressing need to address the lingering disparities and inequities that persist in cancer care worldwide.
While significant advancements in medical research have led to improved cancer survival rates across most forms of cancer, the stark reality is that glaring inequalities and inequities continue to plague cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. These two terms – inequalities and inequities, describe two distinct problems. Health inequalities, which refer to the uneven distribution of resources, may be addressed by providing all parties with equal resources. However, health inequities, which refer to unjust and avoidable differences in care or outcomes, are often rooted in deeper issues such as gender norms and racial and socioeconomic differences.
A disproportionate number of cancer-related deaths, an estimated 70%, occurred in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Additionally, studies have consistently shown that even within high-income nations, cancer deaths were disproportionately higher in individuals living in rural areas, with a low household income, and with lower education levels.
Bridging the care gap will require a multifaceted solution involving multiple stakeholders such as civil society organisations, pharmaceutical companies, and policymakers. So, how can individuals contribute to mitigating health inequities?
- Be receptive to cancer screening
Cancer screening are tests designed to look for early signs of cancer including mammograms, pap smears, colonoscopies, and stool tests. Many cancers can be treated more effectively if they are detected early and save lives. However, the stigma attached to the disease, fear of a diagnosis, a reluctance to be examined, difficulties in access to healthcare, cultural norms, fatalistic notions or proficient practice of the ostrich effect (“I’d rather not know, let me just live and enjoy my life.”) may prevent individuals from getting screened. As individuals, we may start by recognising these internal barriers and challenging our presumptions and prejudices about these tests.
- Advocating for cancer awareness
Many are unaware of the early warning signs and symptoms of common cancers. Individuals can help by supporting cancer awareness programmes and activities, particularly those targeted at traditionally underserved communities. Moreover, we should strive to learn more about the disease and to adopt lifestyle habits that will lower our risks of getting cancer.
- Continuing to engage
The stigma attached to the disease and the fear of death can stifle conversation around cancer. By continuing to engage in open conversations about cancer and seeking reliable information, individuals can help keep themselves and their loved ones informed of the early signs and symptoms of common types of cancers, and of where and how to access screening.
With cancer cases poised to increase as our population ages, the disease is bound to touch someone in our lives at some point or another. Instead of kicking the can down the road and assigning cancer as a problem for ‘future me’, why not learn more about the disease and our own health? While screening tests can certainly be scary, their possible benefits outweigh the risks when conducted following the recommendations of our healthcare providers.
