National Cancer Awareness Day is observed on 7th Nov

07 November 2019 Current Affairs:7th November is observed as National Cancer Awareness Day is observed every year. The day aimed to create awareness about the prevention and early detection of cancer. The day is observed on the day to coincide with the birth anniversary of the eminent and renowned scientist Marie Curie. 

History:
The day was first observed on 7 November 2014. The Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare Dr. Harsh Vardhan designated the observation of the National Cancer Awareness Day every year to create the significance of the awareness about early detection and avoid leading cancer-causing lifestyles.

National Cancer Control Programme:
National Cancer Control Programme was established in 1975. The day was initiated with an aim to provide the cancer treatment facilities in the country. The programme was modified in 1984-85 to provide thrust to prevention and early detection of cancer.

Cancer:
Cancer can be defined as an unrestricted outgrowth of cells. The specific cells start dividing and multiplying, giving rise to a lump. 
Symptoms: The signs and symptoms of cancer are Lump or swelling, a sore that doesn't heal, the recent change in a mole, unusual bleeding or discharge, change in bladder or bowel habit.
Cancer in India:
In most cases, the cancer cases are diagnosed at the end stage, which reduces the chances of survival of the patient. In India, it has been estimated that one woman dies of cervical cancer every 8 minutes in India. In 2018, 3,17,928 deaths (approximately) were caused because of Tobacco usage among men and women. In men, cancers of the oral cavity and lungs accounted for over 25% of deaths, and in women, cancer of the breast and oral cavity accounted for 25% of deaths.