Why Cancer Awareness Matters
Cancer touches nearly every life on the planet. It’s a leading cause of death worldwide, affecting millions each year. That’s why raising awareness is so critical. Increased awareness leads to better prevention strategies, earlier detection, and ultimately, improved treatment outcomes.
Cancer awareness months provide a dedicated platform to shine a spotlight on specific types of cancer. They’re an opportunity to educate the public about risks, promote the importance of screenings, and rally support for ongoing research efforts.
These initiatives aren’t just about information; they’re about action. They encourage individuals to take proactive steps for their health, whether it’s scheduling a check-up, adopting healthier lifestyle choices, or simply learning more about potential risk factors. They also serve as a vital source of support for those living with cancer and their caregivers.
Throughout the year, various cancer awareness months highlight different forms of the disease. This article will explore these months, providing key statistics, actionable tips, and a glimpse into the latest advancements in cancer treatment. We’ll also discuss the importance of caregiver support and resources.
January: Cervical Cancer Awareness Month
Cervical cancer starts in the cervix, which connects the uterus to the vagina. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is often the cause.
According to estimates, doctors will diagnose about 13,360 new cases of cervical cancer in the US in 2025. Experts predict that about 4,320 people will die of cervical cancer.
The good news is that regular Pap tests and HPV vaccinations can help prevent this type of cancer. Catching it early is key.
February: National Cancer Prevention Month and Gallbladder/Bile Duct Cancer Awareness Month
February brings two important cancer awareness initiatives: National Cancer Prevention Month and Gallbladder/Bile Duct Cancer Awareness Month. Each highlights different aspects of the fight against cancer.
National Cancer Prevention Month
Cancer prevention is essential for reducing the overall impact of this disease. Focusing on modifiable risk factors, such as exposure to carcinogens and unhealthy behaviors, can significantly lower your cancer risk. While age and family history also play a role, remember that cancer is fundamentally a genetic disease, sometimes inherited through germline changes.
Gallbladder/Bile Duct Cancer Awareness Month
Gallbladder cancer is a rare cancer that’s hard to detect in its early stages. Bile duct cancer affects the tubes that carry bile from the liver. Together, these cancers are expected to account for approximately 12,610 new cases and 4,400 deaths in 2025.
Early detection is critical for improving survival rates. Raising awareness and understanding of these cancers is essential for promoting timely diagnosis and treatment.
March: Colon Cancer, Kidney Cancer, and Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month
March is a busy month in the cancer awareness world, with three distinct cancers represented.
Colon Cancer Awareness Month
Colon cancer is a fairly common cancer that affects the large intestine. Because it’s often detectable in its early stages, screening is vital. Polyps can be removed before they become cancerous.
In 2025, experts predict that approximately 107,320 new cases of colon cancer will be diagnosed, along with 46,950 new cases of rectal cancer. Regular screening, such as colonoscopies, can significantly lower your risk of developing colon cancer.
Kidney Cancer Awareness Month
Kidney cancer affects the kidneys, which filter waste from the blood. After rising for a number of years, the rates of new kidney cancer diagnoses have plateaued.
In 2024, approximately 81,610 new cases of kidney cancer are expected to be diagnosed, and about 14,390 people are expected to die of kidney cancer. Risk factors for kidney cancer include smoking, obesity, and certain genetic conditions.
Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month
Multiple myeloma is a less common cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. It’s more often diagnosed in older adults.
In 2025, approximately 36,110 new cases of multiple myeloma are expected, and about 12,030 people are expected to die of the disease. Treatment options include chemotherapy, stem cell transplants, and targeted therapies.
April: Testicular Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, and Head & Neck Cancer Awareness Month
April is dedicated to raising awareness of three different types of cancer: testicular cancer, esophageal cancer, and head and neck cancers.
Testicular Cancer Awareness Month
Testicular cancer affects the testicles, which are part of the male reproductive system. It’s most often found in younger men.
The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2025, around 9,720 men will be diagnosed with testicular cancer, and about 600 will die of it. The rate of new cases has been climbing, but it’s starting to slow down.
Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month
Esophageal cancer strikes the esophagus, which is the tube that connects your throat to your stomach. It’s more common in men and in certain ethnic groups.
For 2025, the American Cancer Society projects about 22,070 new cases of esophageal cancer, and around 16,250 deaths. Risk factors for this type of cancer include smoking, drinking alcohol, and having Barrett’s esophagus.
Head & Neck Cancer Awareness Month
Head and neck cancers can affect various areas, including the mouth, throat, and larynx. These cancers are often linked to using tobacco and drinking alcohol.
The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2025, about 58,450 new cases of head and neck cancers will be diagnosed, and around 12,230 people will die. Finding these cancers early is key to improving survival rates.
May: Bladder Cancer, Brain Cancer, and Melanoma & Skin Cancer Awareness Month
May is a busy month when it comes to cancer awareness. Here’s a quick look at the cancers that get special attention this month.
Bladder Cancer Awareness Month
Bladder cancer affects the bladder, which stores urine. Rates have been dropping, likely because fewer people are smoking.
In 2022, experts predicted about 84,870 new cases of bladder cancer and 17,420 deaths. Risk factors include smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, and long-term bladder infections.
Brain Cancer Awareness Month
Brain tumors are masses of abnormal cells that grow in the brain. The symptoms of brain cancer depend on where the tumor is located and how big it is.
In 2025, about 24,820 people are expected to be diagnosed with malignant brain tumors, and 18,330 are expected to die of the disease. Treatments for brain cancer include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
Melanoma & Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can be deadly if it’s not caught early. Protecting your skin from the sun is the best way to prevent melanoma.
In 2025, about 104,960 new cases of melanoma are expected to be diagnosed, and 8,430 people are expected to die of the disease. Regular skin checks and sun protection are key to preventing and treating melanoma.
June: National Cancer Survivor Month
National Cancer Survivor Month is a time to recognize the strength and resilience of people who have survived cancer. It’s also a time to raise awareness about the challenges cancer survivors face.
Providing resources and support is essential to their long-term well-being. Cancer survivors often face physical, emotional, and financial difficulties during and after treatment.
During National Cancer Survivor Month, we can show our support by listening to survivors’ stories, donating to cancer research, and advocating for policies that support cancer survivors.
July: Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month
Sarcomas are cancers that start in connective tissues like bone, muscle, and fat. Bone cancer, more specifically, affects the bones.
The American Cancer Society estimates that doctors will diagnose about 3,770 new cases of bone cancer in 2024, and about 2,190 people will die of it.
Treatments depend on the type of cancer and how advanced it is. I’ll have more on treatment options later in this article.
September: A Month Dedicated to Many Different Cancers
September is a busy month for cancer awareness, with no fewer than seven different cancers recognized this month:
- Childhood cancer
- Gynecological cancer
- Leukemia
- Lymphoma
- Ovarian cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Thyroid cancer
Here’s a look at each of the cancers recognized in September:
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Childhood cancers strike children and adolescents. While treatments have improved survival rates significantly over the years, continued research is vital.
An estimated 9,550 children will be diagnosed with some form of cancer in 2025.
Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month
Gynecologic cancers affect women’s reproductive organs, including the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, and vulva. As with other cancers, early detection is key to improving survival rates.
Leukemia Awareness Month
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood. It affects bone marrow and blood cells. There are many different types of leukemia, each with its own characteristics and treatment approaches.
Lymphoma Awareness Month
Lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system. Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are the two main types of lymphoma.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
Ovarian cancer affects the ovaries, which are female reproductive organs. It’s a leading cause of cancer death in women, in part because the symptoms can be vague, making early detection difficult.
In 2025, estimates show that approximately 20,890 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and 12,730 deaths are expected as a result of the disease.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Prostate cancer affects the prostate gland, a male reproductive organ. It’s the most common cancer in men after skin cancer.
It’s estimated that there will be approximately 313,780 new cases of prostate cancer and 35,770 deaths in 2025. Screening options include PSA tests and digital rectal exams.
Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month
Thyroid cancer affects the thyroid gland, which is located in the neck. The number of new cases has recently decreased because of stricter diagnostic criteria.
Approximately 44,020 new cases of thyroid cancer and 2,290 deaths are expected in 2025. The good news is that most thyroid cancers are highly treatable.
October: Breast Cancer and Liver Cancer Awareness Month
October is a busy month in the cancer awareness world. Two of the most widely recognized awareness campaigns focus on breast cancer and liver cancer.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women (excluding skin cancer), and early detection through regular screening is key. In 2025, experts project that we’ll see about 316,950 new cases of invasive breast cancer, 59,080 new cases of DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ, or non-invasive breast cancer), and 42,170 deaths from breast cancer.
Risk factors for breast cancer include age, family history, and lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise.
Liver Cancer Awareness Month
Liver cancer can begin in the liver or spread to the liver from another site in the body. Risk factors for liver cancer include chronic liver diseases, such as hepatitis B and C.
Unfortunately, liver cancer incidence rates are increasing in the United States. Treatment options vary depending on the stage and location of the cancer.
November: Honoring Caregivers Month, Carcinoid Cancer, Lung Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, and Stomach Cancer Awareness Month
November is a busy month in the cancer awareness world. Here’s a quick look at the many different cancers and the people who care for cancer patients and survivors that are recognized this month.
Honoring Caregivers Month
Caregivers are the unsung heroes of cancer treatment. They do so much to support cancer patients, and their work definitely deserves recognition. Providing caregivers with resources and respite is essential, as is addressing their physical, emotional, and financial well-being.
Carcinoid Cancer Awareness Month
Carcinoid tumors are slow-growing cancers that can develop in different parts of the body, often starting in the digestive tract or lungs.
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers, and it affects both men and women. Smoking is the biggest risk factor for lung cancer.
The American Cancer Society projects that in 2024, there will be about 234,580 new cases of lung cancer diagnosed and about 125,070 deaths from lung cancer.
Screening options are available for people at high risk, so talk with your doctor to see if you qualify.
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
Pancreatic cancer is a particularly serious cancer that’s often diagnosed late, which makes it harder to treat.
The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2024, about 66,440 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and about 51,750 will die of it.
Risk factors for pancreatic cancer include smoking, obesity, and diabetes.
Stomach Cancer Awareness Month
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, affects the stomach. It’s becoming less common in the U.S.
The American Cancer Society projects that in 2024, there will be about 26,870 new cases of stomach cancer diagnosed and about 10,880 deaths from the disease.
Risk factors for stomach cancer include diet, smoking, and infection with Helicobacter pylori.
Wrapping Up
Cancer awareness months work together to make a big difference in cancer education and prevention. When more people understand the risks and symptoms of different kinds of cancer, they’re more likely to take steps to protect their health and get the care they need.
You can add your voice to the chorus of people raising awareness about cancer. You can support research and prevention efforts that will help people with cancer and their families. You can stay informed, advocate for change, and encourage the people around you to make their health a priority.