ACS marks World Cancer Day

For nearly 20 years, the Union for International Cancer Control has recognized Feb. 4 as World Cancer Day as a way to raise awareness and press governments and individuals to take action. The American Cancer Society is joining this domestic and international cancer community, and Franklin County’s Relay for Life is an active participant in the mission.

The ACS’ goal is to encourage continued support, action and funding for cancer prevention, detection and treatment. The ACS works with institutions like the World Health Organizations and partners with ministries of health, hospitals, civil societies and cancer control organizations to design and integrate programs in local health care systems.

“Our key mission locally for 2019 is community education. Being knowledgeable about cancer
and cancer risk empowers you to be an advocate for your health,” said ACS community development manager Anna Duncan.

Duncan said the ACS is looking to partner with local businesses and civic organizations and citizens to keep education at the forefront. She has initiatives planned for all of 2019, with special events for the month of February, which is Cancer Prevention Month.

Throughout the month, local cancer survivors and patients will be featured in a series of Facebook live events, where Duncan and otheres will discuss common cancer types, recommended screenings and personal stories. Duncan said she plans to schedule these educational videos for every Friday of the month.

“Knowledge is power when it comes to cancer,” she said.

Cancer Prevention Day will be observed Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Russellville Public Library.

For more information, contact Duncan at anna.duncan@cancer.org or Larry and Janice Dover at Janice@franklinbaptist1898.org.