What is cancer? The organs and tissues of our body are made up of millions of cells that are invisible to the naked eye. Cancer is a disease of these cells. Although the cells in different parts of the body have different shapes and functions, they repair and multiply in a similar way. When cells are normal, they divide and multiply in an orderly manner and are self-controlled. However, if they are out of control, they will keep multiplying and accumulate in the body in the form of a tumour. There are two types of tumors, benign and malignant, and malignant tumors are commonly called cancer. The cells of benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body and therefore do not cause cancer. However, if a benign tumor continues to grow in its original location, it may cause problems by pressing on adjacent organs. Malignant tumors contain cancer cells that have the ability to spread from their original site. If left untreated, they can invade and destroy surrounding tissues and spread to other organs of the body through the blood or lymphatic system, where they can multiply and become “secondary” or “metastasis” tumors. metastasis. Doctors can examine a sample of cells under a microscope to determine whether a tumor is benign or malignant. There is more than one cause of cancer. There is also more than one treatment method. There are more than 200 different types of cancer, each with its own unique treatment. In response to the dramatic increase in cancer incidence and mortality worldwide, the International Union Against Cancer (UICC) has designated February 4 each year as World Cancer Day in order to provide better medical treatment, care and attention to cancer patients around the world. Do you know about cancer? (Cancer-did you know?)”, the UICC has put forward four common misconceptions about cancer prevention and control, and refuted them with evidence. Myth 1: Cancer is only a health problem. Fact: Cancer is not just a health issue; it has broad social, economic, developmental and human rights implications. Cancer and Development: Cancer poses a major challenge to global development and impedes social and economic progress. Cancer and health policy: Effective cancer prevention and control requires the involvement of all government departments (not just health authorities). Investing in cancer: It is more economically efficient to invest in cancer prevention and early diagnosis than in the treatment of cancer itself. Myth #2: Cancer is a disease of the wealthy, the aging and the developed world. Fact: Cancer is a global epidemic that affects all ages, socioeconomic classes, and developing countries carry a disproportionate burden. Cancer in developing countries: Cancer is a global problem and is becoming an increasingly important public health issue in poorer countries. Cancer and Infectious Diseases: Many developing countries now face the dual burden of continuously increasing infectious diseases and NCD (including cancer). Cancer and population aging: Cancer affects not only older adults, but also young adult men and women, often at a time when they are at a critical point in their careers. This issue must be of particular concern in developing countries. Cancer and wealth: The effects of cancer are devastating for all people, but even more so for the poor, the vulnerable, and those of low social status, who become sicker and die sooner. Myth 3: Cancer means death. Fact: Many malignancies previously thought to be lethal are now curable. And for many patients, their cancer can be treated effectively. Advances in cancer control: Advances in risk factor recognition and prevention, early diagnosis and treatment have brought about changes in cancer disease management and improved patient prognosis. Accessibility of cancer services: Unfortunately, access to comprehensive cancer care, including access to critical drugs, is more limited to wealthy countries and individuals. Ensuring the implementation of cancer services across all resource conditions: Cancer prevention and control measures exist and can be integrated and implemented across all resource conditions. Raising public and government awareness of this issue is an important factor in obtaining equitable cancer prevention and control. Myth 4: Cancer is predestined. Fact: Using the right approach, 1/3 of all common cancers can be prevented. Cancer Prevention: In the long run, prevention is the most cost-effective and sustainable way to reduce the global cancer burden. Cancer knowledge: Lack of information and awareness about cancer is a serious impediment to effective cancer control and treatment in developing countries, especially in the early, manageable stages of cancer. Cancer Prognosis: For most cancers, the prognosis of patients in developed and developing countries differs.