World Cancer Day 2026 theme ‘United by Unique’ stresses on personalised treatment
Team L&M
This World Cancer Day (February 4) the spotlight is on strengthening awareness, early diagnosis, and personalised treatment approaches. The 2026 theme, “United by Unique,” highlights the need to recognise every patient’s journey as distinct and to tailor care accordingly — a message that resonates strongly with India’s evolving cancer care landscape where the growing cancer burden presents complex challenges for health systems, clinicians, families, and communities alike.
According to the Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) National Cancer Registry Programme, India recorded an estimated 15.33 lakh (1.53 million) new cancer cases in 2024, continuing a steady upward trend over the past several years. At the same time, cancer-related deaths have surged, reaching approximately 8.7 lakh (870,000) in 2024 — a nearly 29% rise in mortality over the past decade, outpacing the increase in new diagnoses. These figures underscore a sobering reality: while more cases are being detected, many still present at advanced stages, and access to timely, effective treatment remains uneven across regions and populations. Experts also point to lifestyle factors, environmental exposures such as air pollution, and gaps in screening coverage as key contributors to India’s escalating cancer burden.
Steady Rise Worrisome
India continues to witness a steady rise in cancer cases, with breast and colorectal cancers emerging among the most commonly diagnosed malignancies, particularly in urban populations. Late detection remains a significant challenge, often leading to complex treatment pathways and poorer outcomes. Medical experts stress that timely screening, awareness of early warning signs, and access to appropriate surgical care can dramatically improve survival rates and quality of life.
Speaking about it Dr Aditi Agrawal, General and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Apex Superspeciality Hospitals, Borivali West, Mumbai emphasised the vital role of early intervention and minimally invasive surgical techniques in modern cancer management. With extensive expertise in breast cancer treatment, colorectal disorders, and advanced laparoscopic procedures, Dr. Agrawal has been at the forefront of delivering precise, patient-focused care.
“Cancer care today is not just about treating a disease; it is about treating a person,” said Dr. Aditi Agrawal. “Early detection, especially in breast and colorectal cancers, can significantly reduce the need for extensive surgeries and allow for better functional and cosmetic outcomes. Minimally invasive and laparoscopic approaches help patients recover faster, experience less pain, and return to normal life sooner,” she adds.
United by Unique, a clear message
“On this World Cancer Day, the message is clear: modern cancer surgery is about precision, not aggression. The greatest threat is not conservative surgery; it is late diagnosis. Early detection opens the door to organ preservation, simpler treatments, and better outcomes. The future lies in personalised, evidence-based, compassionate treatment, where curing the disease and preserving the person go hand in hand. Because in cancer care today, less can truly be more. Our approach must match that uniqueness — from early detection and precision diagnostics to tailored therapies, holistic support, and personalized care, which enhances treatment effectiveness and improves quality of life,” says Dr Dr. Priyank Chawathe, Consultant Surgical Oncology & Robotic Surgery from Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, Mumbai
“Open communication and education are as important as surgical skill. Fear, stigma, and lack of awareness often delay medical consultation, especially among women, leading to avoidable complications,” says Dr Agrawal, highlighting the importance of regular screenings, self-examinations, and lifestyle modifications. “Simple steps such as timely check-ups, attention to symptoms like unexplained lumps, changes in bowel habits, or persistent pain, and seeking medical advice early can save lives,” she adds.
As India moves toward a more integrated and personalized healthcare model, World Cancer Day 2026 serves as a powerful reminder that combining medical expertise, technological advancement, and compassionate care is key to reducing the cancer burden. The message is clear — when cancer is detected early and treated thoughtfully, outcomes improve, and hope grows stronger.
