Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: History, Objectives, and Importance
January marks
the "Cervical Heath Awareness Month," a chance to raise
awareness about HPV vaccination and cervical cancer. Despite its importance, most
women neglect their cervical health throughout their lives. The American Social
Health Association (ASHA) and the National Cervical Cancer Coalition (NCCC)
co-sponsor this observance to raise awareness about the importance of
comprehensive prevention methods, effective screening, and early detection for
cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer claims to be the sixth most common cancer in women. It is estimated that one-fourth of all cases of cervical cancer in women are found in India. There are approximately 1,22,844 new instances of cervical cancer each year in the country, which results in one-third of all cancer fatalities worldwide. “These figures are alarming because unlike most other cancers, there are effective screening methods to detect women who are likely to develop cancer in the future and detect it at an early stage. This apart, we have vaccinations against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) that has been identified as the causative agent in more than 99 per cent of cervical cancers,” says Dr Geeth Monnappa, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Fortis La Femme Hospital, Bengaluru.
History
Every year, the month of
January is marked as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month which is represented by a
teal-coloured ribbon. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of
WHO, issued a worldwide call to action at the World Health Assembly in May 2018
to eradicate cervical cancer. Thus, in 2020, the World Health Organization
publicly introduced the Global Strategy to speed up the complete eradication of
Cervical Cancer.
Aim
Cervical Cancer Awareness
Month serves as an effective platform for raising public awareness about
cervical cancer, HPV disease, and the value of early detection in communities
around the country. In 2023, the aim is to increase awareness of HPV (human
papillomavirus), the virus responsible for all cases of cervical cancer. The
goal is to get 90% of the girls to be fully vaccinated with HPV virus at the
age of 15 and 90% of the women to get the cancer treated or managed.
Theme
The theme for this year is to
“Get informed. Get screened. Get vaccinated.”
Get informed: Since the human
papillomavirus(HPV) is responsible for most cases of the cervical cancer, it is
important to educate yourself and also help other women get educated about the
virus.
Get screened: Screening for
cervical cancer is recommended beginning at the age of 30 and continuing it at
regular intervals.
Get vaccinated: The HPV
vaccine comes in two doses, which is recommended for girls starting in the age
of 9 to 14.
Report
In 2020, 604,127 women were
reported to have cervical cancer, and 341,831 women died from the disease
worldwide. Despite being a relatively preventable cancer, these numbers are
shocking. The highest incidence rate of cervical cancer was found in Asia
(58.2%), while the lowest was found in Northern America (2.5%). Nearly 2.8
billion women worldwide are at risk for developing cervical cancer, with
roughly 80% of those living in less developed areas. The age-standardized
incidence and death rates are 13.1 and 6.9 per 100,000 women,
respectively. Yet, as compared to global estimates, these rates are
significantly higher for Indian women. Among Indian women, the incidence rate
is 14.7% per 100,000 and the mortality rate is 9.2% per 100,000.
Importance
To spread awareness about the
cervical cancer and to educate women on it, the cervical cancer awareness month
is considered important and has been observed in January each year. Cancer is a
leading cause of death worldwide, and each year thousands of lives could be
saved if more people knew the warning signs and symptoms and get the effective treatment
at the early stage itself.
With proper diagnosis and treatment, cervical cancer has a high survival rate compared to other cancers. Also, with the right treatment and palliative care, even late-stage cancers can be managed. Cervical cancer can be eliminated as a public health problem within a generation if proper measures are taken to prevent, screen, and treat the disease. You may book an appointment and consult a gynaecologist to get the proper diagnosis.
Every year, the first Tuesday of May marks World Asthma Day, a global initiative organized by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) to raise awareness and improve care for people living with asthma. In 2025, this important health observance falls on May 6th, bringing together healthcare professionals, patients, and advocates to spotlight a respiratory condition that affects millions worldwide. Understanding the asthma definition and the evolving landscape of asthma treatments is essential in managing the disease and improving the quality of life for those impacted.
Raising awareness on World Asthma Day 2025
This year’s GINA theme for World Asthma Day is “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL,” which focuses on the need to ensure that people with asthma get access to inhaled medicines to treat attacks and control the disease. By spreading awareness about the illness, we can decrease the stigma and support those who have asthma and who are silently suffering from it.
Asthma Definition
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that leads to wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness, etc. All these symptoms are caused by cold air, allergens, stress, or exercise. This illness predominantly affects people of all age groups, and it has no cure. However, it can be managed by lifestyle modifications and proper medical guidance. This is the reason why asthma treatments play a major role in the lives of asthma patients.
Asthma Causes or Triggers
Managing asthma starts with identifying what sets it off. Triggers vary from person to person but commonly include dust mites, pollen, pet dander, smoke, pollution, and respiratory infections. Cold weather, strong smells, and even emotional stress can also contribute. Understanding your specific triggers helps tailor the right asthma treatments for better control. Alongside recognizing triggers, revisiting the asthma definition with your healthcare provider ensures you’re always aware of your current condition and risk factors.
Whom to Consult for Asthma?
You can consult a Pulmonologist to get your illness treated and managed at the right time.
Asthma Treatments
Asthma treatments are becoming advanced now, and a few very common include the following:
Inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and combination inhalers remain the cornerstone of treatment. Biologic therapies targeting specific immune system components have emerged as game-changers for severe asthma. Personalized medicine, digital inhalers, and telehealth monitoring are also enhancing outcomes. No matter how sophisticated the tools become, understanding the asthma definition helps patients stay informed and proactive about their care.
Takeaways
World Asthma Day 2025 is indeed a call to action not just for people with asthma but also for educators, families, and communities that come together to fight against asthma. So, it is important to learn about asthma and create awareness about it among the people around you. Let’s commit to breathing easier together.
15th Apr, 2025
When a single mosquito bite could take a life, awareness isn’t an option, it's mandatory!
Every few minutes, someone dies due to malaria. It’s a harmful illness that’s been haunting us for centuries, yet it can be treated, prevented, and even eliminated.
Every April 25th, the entire world observes World Malaria Day. This day is a global observance aimed at raising awareness about malaria and fighting this dangerous illness.
World Malaria Day 2025 Theme
The theme for this year’s World Malaria Day 2025 is "Malaria Ends with Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite," which emphasizes the importance and need for an intense commitment, continued investment, and innovative strategies to fight and end malaria.
World Malaria Day 2025: History
World Malaria Day was first instituted by the World Health Organization (WHO) during the 2007 World Health Assembly. This special day highlights the importance of continuous investment, political commitments, and the sustained need to prevent and control malaria. Also, the day has evolved from Africa Malaria Day, which has been observed since 2001, exposing the burden of African nations suffering from malaria.
What is Malaria?
Malaria is a highly infectious mosquito-borne illness caused by parasites of the Plasmodium genus. It is transmitted to humans through female Anopheles mosquito bites. Although malaria is treatable and preventable, it remains one of the most dangerous concerns globally, particularly in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.
Malaria Symptoms
Malaria symptoms generally appear in 10-15 days after the mosquito bite. It is crucial that you treat it immediately without any delay to avoid it getting worse. However, a few very common symptoms of malaria are:
- Headaches
- Sweating
- High fever and chills
- Vomiting and nausea
- Anaemia
- Diarrhea
- Muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
Malaria Treatments
Malaria treatments are becoming more advanced nowadays, and it is important to diagnose it at the earliest and get it treated on time. Usually, malaria is treated with common antimalarial medicines, and the dosage to completely based on the severity of the infection and parasite species. A few common treatments include:
- Primaquine
- Chloroquine
- Artemisinin-based combined therapies (ACTs)
Patients with severe malaria might require good hospitalization and intravenous drugs.
Malaria Prevention Tips
Prevention plays a major role in reducing the spread of malaria. Here’s how to prevent yourselves from malaria
- Use Insecticide-Treated Bed Nets (ITNs)
- Environmental Control
- Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS)
- Wear Protective Clothing
- Antimalarial Prophylaxis (Preventive Medication)
Why World Malaria Day Matters?
World Malaria Day is not just a call for awareness—it's a rallying cry for action. It reminds us that we all have a role to play, from governments funding malaria programs to researchers developing vaccines to individuals using bed nets and promoting awareness in their communities.
9th Apr, 2025
World Tuberculosis Day is observed on March 24 every year. It highlights the global initiative to bring more awareness to Tuberculosis (TB), a dangerous bacterial infection that affects the lungs and can impact various other parts of the body. So, this special day emphasizes early diagnosis and treatment. Continued efforts and preventive measures will help combat illness effectively.
What is TB?
Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB). When an infected individual sneezes, coughs, or speaks, it spreads via the air. Although TB primarily affects the lungs, it could also damage the kidneys, spine, and brain. The illness may be active or latent. TB can cause significant difficulties and even death if treatment is not received.
Since its establishment by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1982, World Tuberculosis Day has been essential in teaching the public, medical professionals, and governments about tuberculosis early detection, treatment, and the significance of raising awareness of the disease.
World TB Day's Importance
World Tuberculosis Day is an important reminder of the persistent global threat that tuberculosis poses and the pressing need to combat it. The day highlights the significance of spreading knowledge about the illness and its negative social and economic effects on individuals and communities. Additionally, it draws attention to the gaps in care, diagnosis, and treatment, particularly in settings with limited resources.
Early detection of tuberculosis is crucial for patients to receive treatment in a timely manner and to stop the disease from spreading. If treatment is delayed, tuberculosis can spread throughout communities and lead to serious health issues. Additionally, early diagnosis reduces the possibility of drug-resistant bacterial strains emerging and improves the likelihood of a successful course of therapy.
World TB Day 2025 Theme
World TB Day features a different topic each year to highlight various facets of TB awareness and elimination. "Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver" is the theme for World TB Day in 2025. This topic emphasizes the worldwide effort to eradicate tuberculosis by promoting:
- Dedication of communities, healthcare professionals, and legislators to put into practice efficient TB control strategies.
- Investing in healthcare systems, technology, and research to enhance TB diagnosis and treatment.
- Providing high-quality TB care services, particularly for patients with drug-resistant TB, ensures that no one is left behind.
Tuberculosis Stages
- Primary Infection
- Latent TB Infection
- Active TB Disease
TB Symptoms
- Continuous coughing lasts more than 3 weeks
- Weight loss
- Fever, night chills, and sweats
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain
Final Thoughts
World TB Day 2025 reminds us of the vital need to eradicate tuberculosis globally. Even though India has made great strides, TB eradication by 2025 will require more funding, creative healthcare approaches, and a strong political commitment. By emphasizing early identification, high-quality treatment, and community support, India can realize its TB-free objective and take the lead in international efforts to eradicate tuberculosis.
18th Mar, 2025
Many people struggle to break their smoking habit, and quitting can feel like an overwhelming challenge. Smoking is the major cause of fatal conditions, which include lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues. To raise awareness and support those trying to quit, No Smoking Day is observed annually. In this blog, we will delve into the history and significance of World No Smoking Day.
History of No Smoking Day
No Smoking Day was first observed in the United Kingdom in 1984, on the second Wednesday of March. Since then, it has evolved into a global campaign. The goal of No Smoking Day is to raise awareness about the health risks linked to smoking.
No Smoking Day brings together a variety of activities and it provides an opportunity for individuals worried about their loved ones to get involved.
Significance of No Smoking Day
No Smoking Day plays a major role in promoting public health by raising awareness of the significant health risks linked to smoking and passive smoking. According to one study, smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke kill about 1.2 million Indians each year.
Individuals who trying to quit can find support and resources on No Smoking Day to help them succeed in their journey towards a smoke-free life. By highlighting the dangers of smoking and providing encouragement, No Smoking Day aims to inspire individuals to make positive changes for their health and well-being.
Theme
Every year, No Smoking Day is observed with a theme to emphasize the importance of quitting smoking. This year, the theme for No Smoking Day 2025 is “Unmasking the Appeal” focuses on showing the reality behind the allure of smoking.
How to Quit Smoking?
Quitting smoking is not easy. However. Taking the step to quit on this day is really a great way to start prioritizing your health. The following are:
· Set a Quit Date
· Use Quit Smoking Aids
· Stay Active
In conclusion, No Smoking Day is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a global reminder of the importance of taking care of our health and the steps we can take to lead a healthier, smoke-free life. Take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle today.
7th Mar, 2025
Kidney diseases often go hidden, and they develop unnoticed, with approximately 8 to 10 percent of adults getting affected by some kidney damage. Most people stay unaware until they see severe symptoms, and every year, millions of people die prematurely due to this serious condition.
World Kidney Day is observed on the second Thursday of March, and it aims to raise awareness about the need for regular kidney health testing. This year’s campaign concentrates more on encouraging people to get tested regularly and to know before any symptoms worsen. With kidney disease advancing silently, regular screenings will help overcome it efficiently.
The Theme for World Kidney Day 2025
World Kidney Day 2025 is observed on March 13th, 2025, to increase awareness about kidney health and the need for early diagnosis and detection. This year's theme is “Are your kidneys OK? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health,” which highlights why proactive screening is crucial to detect kidney diseases before they become more serious and progress to the advanced stages.
This focus is also on making people understand better the risk factors that follow, like diabetes, high blood pressure, and a family history of kidney diseases. Blood testing and urine examinations will help detect illness as soon as possible and can prevent all sorts of complications that are about to come. This is indeed a global cause to stay away from any kidney-related issues.
History and Significance
World Kidney Day was first introduced in 2006 as a collaborative effort between the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations (IFKF). The primary goal of this initiative is to spread awareness about kidney health and emphasize the importance of preventive measures to lower the risk of kidney disease globally.
Since its inception, World Kidney Day has been observed annually on the second Thursday of March. It draws attention to the need for early diagnosis, effective treatment, and lifestyle choices that support kidney function.
This global awareness day plays a crucial role in tackling the increasing number of kidney disease cases, many of which remain undetected until they reach advanced stages. By educating people, encouraging regular health check-ups, and pushing for improved healthcare policies, World Kidney Day aims to make a significant impact.
Each year, the campaign adopts a unique theme highlighting key concerns related to kidney health, striving to reduce the burden of kidney diseases on individuals and healthcare systems worldwide.
Whom to Consult about Kidney Problems?
For any type of kidney issues, you can consult a primary care Physician, Nephrologist, or Urologist. Make sure to consult them on time when you face any symptoms and get them tested at the earliest.
What are the various tests to diagnose kidney issues?
A few common tests to diagnose kidney-related problems are:
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Image tests
- Kidney biopsy
- Additional Tests
What can be done to prevent kidney conditions?
- Stay more hydrated
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Keep your BP and blood sugar in check
- Do more physical activities
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Get regular health checkups
- Limit use of painkillers
Final Takeaway
On this special day, ensure to focus more on your kidney health and keep with all your regular checkups. It is not just important to keep yourself happy, it is merely important to stay heathy, because health isn’t an option, it is a priority.
4th Mar, 2025
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