Cancer on the Rise in Underserved Countries
BY ALLISON KOZICHAROW; EDITED BY BERNICE BORN
C
ancer can strike anyone, but today 70% of cancer deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries without adequate medical and economic resources. So far the global health community does not offer a focused action plan to combat cancer as it does for infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS.
Project Syndicate reports that cancer kills more people in developing countries than AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis combined. But, with Africa receiving only 5% of global funding for cancer prevention and control, the disease is outpacing efforts to contain it.
Cancer Prevention Tips
- Eat healthy food and stay active
- Avoid tobacco
- Use sunscreen
- Follow recommended cancer screening guidelines
- Learn about carcinogens
- Learn about alcohol use and cancer
- Know your family history of cancer
Source: American Cancer Society
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that around one-third of deaths from cancer are due to five leading behavioral and dietary risks: high body mass index, low fruit and vegetable intake, lack of physical activity, tobacco use and alcohol use. Tobacco use remains the most important risk factor for cancer and is responsible for approximately 22% of cancer deaths.
WiRED International offers a series of modules on cancer for general audiences and healthcare professionals, which the organization is in the process of revising. WiRED continually updates material in its health education e-library to ensure its supply of the most up-to-date health information.
WHO notes that 30-50% of cancers could be prevented. WiRED believes that where you live should not affect whether you live, and will continue its mission to provide free-of-charge health information to those communities most in need.
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