Tuesday, February 3, 2026

World Cancer Day on February 4, 2026: “United by Unique” puts people, care and prevention at the center

On February 4, 2026, World Cancer Day will be observed worldwide for the 26th time. The international motto of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) is “United by Unique.” It highlights that while all people affected by cancer are connected through the diagnosis, every patient has an individual story, unique experiences, and specific needs – often lasting many years beyond the disease itself.

For more than 50 years, the German Cancer Aid (Deutsche Krebshilfe) has been committed to continuously improving care for people with cancer. The organization supports projects across the entire continuum of care – from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, treatment, medical follow-up, and psychosocial support. With services such as INFONETZ KREBS and its Hardship Fund, it also provides direct assistance to patients and their families.

Strengthening Oncology Nursing: €3 Million for Research and Education

Oncology nursing in Germany faces major challenges: rising patient numbers, increasingly complex therapies, and a growing shortage of skilled professionals. To address these challenges, German Cancer Aid is funding two endowed professorships in oncology nursing with a total of €3 million. The professorships will be established in Halle (Saale) and Freiburg. Their aim is to sustainably strengthen research, education, and patient care – for example through the development of specialized master’s degree programs.

Inform, Share, Support

World Cancer Day is also an opportunity for German Cancer Aid to intensify its information efforts on cancer prevention, early detection, and current developments in diagnosis, therapy, and follow-up care. You can support this work by distributing free informational materials – from prevention brochures and early-detection leaflets to patient guides and clinical guidelines.

Engagement on social media, fundraising events, or donations also make a difference. Even small, regular contributions help to sustainably support the fight against cancer.

Facts & Figures

• 520,000 people in Germany are newly diagnosed with cancer each year
• 4 million people live with or after a cancer diagnosis
• 40% of all cancer cases could be prevented through a healthy lifestyle

Take action on World Cancer Day – united by our uniqueness against cancer.