National Current Affairs
National Cancer Awareness Day 2025
- 07 Nov 2025
- 2 min read
Why in News?
India observes National Cancer Awareness Day on 7th November 2025, focusing on prevention, early detection, and awareness of cancer.
Key Points
- Date and Background:
- The day coincides with the birth anniversary of Marie Curie (7th November 1867), whose groundbreaking research on radioactivity revolutionized cancer diagnosis and treatment.
- It was first announced in 2014 by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to promote awareness about cancer prevention and screening.
- Purpose and Significance:
- Aims to educate citizens on the importance of lifestyle modification, regular health check-ups, and timely medical intervention.
- Cancer cases in India are rising, with over 14 lakh new cases reported each year, many detected at advanced stages.
- Theme 2025: Though India’s campaign has a domestic focus, it aligns with the global World Cancer Day theme (2025–27): “United by Unique”, highlighting personalized care and inclusivity in cancer treatment.
Maria Skłodowska-Curie (1867–1934)
- Nationality: Polish-born, later became a French citizen
- Major Discoveries:
- Discovered the radioactive elements Radium (Ra) and Polonium (Po).
- Pioneered the concept and medical use of radioactivity in cancer treatment (radiotherapy)
- Awards and Honours:
- First woman to win a Nobel Prize
- Only person to receive two Nobel Prizes in two different sciences — Physics (1903) and Chemistry (1911)
- Scientific Impact: Her research laid the foundation for nuclear medicine and radiation therapy used in cancer diagnosis and treatment today.
