This World Cancer Day, 4th February, we come together to raise awareness, honour those affected, and encourage action to help prevent, detect and treat cancer.
Cancer touches almost every Australian family. Today, 1 in 2 Australians will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, with more than 160,000 people diagnosed each year. Despite significant progress in treatment and survival, cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in Australia; making awareness, prevention and research more important than ever.
Cancer does not discriminate. It affects people of all ages, genders and backgrounds, which is why a whole-of-community response is essential.
Early detection saves lives
Early detection remains one of the most effective tools we have in the fight against cancer. Regular screenings and health checks can help detect cancer earlier, when treatment is often more effective and outcomes are better.
Knowing your body, paying attention to changes, and speaking with your GP or health professional if something doesn’t feel right can save lives.
Research is where hope begins
Behind every improvement in cancer survival is research. Reserach is driving earlier diagnosis, better treatments and improved quality of life for our loved ones.Funds raised through The Longest Table go directly to funding life-changing cancer research and care services through The Hospital Research Foundation Group across Australia.
Importantly, The Longest Table funds research for all cancers, common and rare, across both children and adults. This means progress isn’t limited to a single cancer area, but supports breakthroughs wherever they are needed most.
Supporting all cancers, across all stages of life
Through The Hospital Research Foundation Group, funds raised help advance research and care across many cancer areas, including:
- Brain cancer
- Breast cancer
- Bowel cancer
- Childhood cancer
- Leukaemia
- Lung cancer
- Multiple myeloma
- Neuroendocrine tumours
- Prostate cancer
- Stomach cancers
Each area represents thousands of individuals, families and communities relying on continued research to improve outcomes.
Standing together on World Cancer Day
On World Cancer Day, we remember those who have lost their lives to cancer and stand beside everyone currently facing a diagnosis. We acknowledge the families, carers, researchers and healthcare professionals who show extraordinary strength and dedication every day.Together, we can reduce risk, improve early detection, and accelerate the research that leads to better treatments and brighter futures.
This World Cancer Day, take time to:
- Learn more about cancer and prevention
- Check in on your own health
- Encourage loved ones to do the same
- Support cancer research in any way you can
Because together, we can make a real difference in the fight against cancer, and in the lives of those who need hope most.
