Every year, February 4 World Cancer Day is commemorated worldwide through various activities aimed at raising awareness about cancer prevention, promoting early diagnosis, and improving quality of life. According to data from the World Health Organization, cancer continues to be one of the most significant public health challenges globally; early diagnosis, preventive health services, and multidisciplinary treatment approaches play a decisive role in the course of the disease.
Early diagnosis significantly increases treatment success and survival rates in many types of cancer. Regular health check-ups, participation in screening programs, healthy nutrition, physical activity, and avoidance of tobacco and alcohol are among the fundamental factors in reducing cancer risk. Raising public awareness on these issues constitutes one of the strongest steps in the fight against cancer.
For individuals diagnosed with cancer, the treatment process aims not only to eliminate the disease but also to preserve functional capacity, independence, and quality of life. At this point, physiotherapy and rehabilitation stand out as indispensable components of cancer care. Loss of muscle strength, fatigue, balance disorders, lymphedema, pain, and functional limitations that may develop as a result of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy can be effectively addressed through physiotherapy approaches. Individualized exercise programs, respiratory rehabilitation, lymphedema management, and functional training support patients’ participation in activities of daily living.
Cancer rehabilitation offers a holistic approach that encompasses not only physical well-being but also psychosocial well-being. Scientific studies have demonstrated that physical activity is effective in reducing fatigue, anxiety, and depression levels. Therefore, individuals living with cancer are encouraged to maintain an active lifestyle during and after the treatment process.
As the Istanbul Gelişim University Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, we attach great importance to scientific knowledge production, an education approach that prioritizes public health, and awareness-raising activities in the fight against cancer. On the occasion of World Cancer Day, drawing attention to the importance of early diagnosis, healthy lifestyle habits, and rehabilitation, and supporting evidence-based approaches aimed at improving individuals’ quality of life, are among our fundamental objectives.
February 4 World Cancer Day is not only a day of commemoration but also a call for awareness, solidarity, and collective action for life.
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