World Cancer Day was launched in 2000 during the World Summit Against Cancer held in Paris, led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) in partnership with the World Health Organization. Observed every February 4, it aims to raise awareness of cancer, promote prevention, early detection and treatment, and reduce the stigma still attached to the disease in many societies. Cancer remains one of the world's greatest health challenges, with roughly 20 million new cases diagnosed each year and millions of deaths, alongside stark inequalities in access to treatment between wealthier and poorer countries. The campaign typically adopts a multi-year theme addressing issues such as closing the care gap, the importance of early screening, and supporting patients and families emotionally and socially. Around the world, hospitals, nonprofits, and media outlets mark the day with free screening drives, awareness seminars, and fundraising activities to support cancer research and patient care, alongside simple individual gestures like wearing the campaign's signature blue and orange ribbon.