February 4th is recognized globally as World Cancer Day, an international day marked to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment. Conceived by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), the day aims to unite people around the world in the fight against the disease through education and action. World Cancer Day serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing research, healthcare policies, and community support in reducing the global impact of cancer.

April is designated as Cancer Awareness Month in Canada, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. Throughout the month, various health organizations, communities, and individuals come together to support those affected by cancer and to promote the importance of cancer research, education, and advocacy. The campaign involves a series of events, educational programs, and fundraising activities aimed at reducing the incidence and impact of cancer across the country. This month-long observance underscores the collective efforts in the fight against cancer, highlighting advances in treatment, survivorship, and the ongoing quest for a cure.

Cancer Survivors Day is celebrated annually on the first Sunday in June. This special day is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the lives of individuals who have survived cancer, offering support and inspiration to those currently battling the disease, and acknowledging the contributions of families, friends, and healthcare providers who support cancer survivors. Events and activities on this day may include community gatherings, educational talks, ceremonies, and public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting life after cancer, survivorship issues, and the ongoing challenges faced by cancer survivors. It’s a day filled with hope, remembrance, and camaraderie, emphasizing the strength and resilience of survivors and the importance of ongoing research and support in the fight against cancer.

Sarcoma Awareness Month is observed annually in July. Sarcomas are a diverse group of cancers that arise from connective tissues in the body, such as bone, muscle, fat, nerve, fibrous tissues, and blood vessels. This month is dedicated to increasing public awareness about sarcomas, which are relatively rare compared to other types of cancer, and to highlighting the importance of research, early detection, and treatment options. Activities and efforts during Sarcoma Awareness Month include educational campaigns, fundraising events to support research and patient care, and stories shared by survivors to inspire others and spread hope. The goal is to improve outcomes for those diagnosed with sarcoma by fostering a better understanding of the disease and encouraging support for those affected.

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is observed every September to raise awareness of cancer in children and adolescents. This month is dedicated to supporting the young individuals battling cancer, honoring the survivors, remembering the children who have lost their lives to the disease, and recognizing the ongoing struggles of patients and their families. It also emphasizes the critical need for funding and research to develop safer, more effective treatments. During this month, many organizations and communities come together to participate in events, wear gold ribbons—the international symbol of childhood cancer awareness—and engage in advocacy and fundraising efforts. The aim is to increase awareness about the types of cancer that largely affect children, improve access to care and support, and highlight the importance of family support and the advances in treatment that have significantly increased survival rates.