World Cancer Day

World Cancer Day is on 4 February 2025.

We're raising awareness of the impact a cancer diagnosis can have on people's lives and highlighting the urgent need to provide better care for more people.

We're also sharing ways to get support, and how together we can help everyone affected by cancer.

Information about World Cancer Day

  • What is the theme of World Cancer Day 2025?

    The World Cancer Day theme 2025 - 2027 'United by Unique'. This places people at the centre of care and their stories at the heart of conversations. 

    Every experience of cancer is unique. Visit our stories page to read the stories of people affected by cancer. 

  • What is the purpose of World Cancer Day?
    World Cancer Day takes place on 4 February each year. The international day is aimed at raising awareness about cancer, promoting its prevention, detection, and treatment.
  • Where can I get fundraising ideas for World Cancer Day?
    There are many ways you can raise money for Macmillan from sporting activities to unique challenges. Visit our fundraising ideas page for some inspiration. 
  • How can I support this World Cancer Day?

    There are many ways to get involved this World Cancer Day:

  • Where can I find resources for World Cancer Day? 

    We've created a World Cancer Day toolkit highlighting ways you can show your support. In the toolkit you'll find information and social media posts to share.

    You can also find resources on the World Cancer Day website.

A message to my younger self

Looking back can be powerful. In this heartfelt video, Nellie and Adil share a message to their younger selves before cancer. They reflect on the challenges they faced and the strengths they found.  

Whether you’re going through cancer yourself or supporting someone who is, their words offer reassurance, honesty, and hope.  

Wes Streeting ‘In conversation’ with Nick Robinson

This World Cancer Day we live-streamed a conversation between Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, and Nick Robinson, journalist and broadcaster.

This event was an exciting opportunity to bring members of the cancer community together to share their experiences ahead of the Government’s development of the Cancer Plan for England.

Watch a recording of the event.

Information about cancer

Cancer is when abnormal cells multiply and grow out of control. Over time, these cells can grow into a lump called a tumour. We have information to help understand what cancer is, how cancer starts and how we can help. See our information about cancer types, diagnostic tests, cancer treatments and drugs. 

If you need cancer information or support in your language, we have resources in other languages to help you. You can ask for some of our information to be translated into your language, or use our interpreter service on the Macmillan Support Line. 

You can also get information in other formats such as easy read and British Sign Language. 

What is cancer?
A Macmillan speech and language therapist is with a patient in a hospital consulting room. She is examining the patient's neck.

Almost 3.5 million living with cancer

Our latest analysis shows that the number of people living with cancer in the UK has now risen to almost 3.5 million. We will do whatever it takes to improve the lives of people living with cancer, and address people's immediate financial needs and long-term care challenges. Read more about how we’re taking action.
Change is needed

Stories from people living with cancer

Every cancer experience is unique. Read stories of those affected by cancer, the challenges they experienced and the support they received.
Man outdoors, smiling while wearing a dark padded jacket. The background shows greenery.

James

“I try to encourage others to accept themselves as bigger than just a cancer patient."
Woman lying down, wearing a black shirt, and resting her hand on her head

Nicola

"It’s so hard to advocate for yourself when you are unclear what things mean."
A dark green laptop on a light green background.

Sarah

"We are here to tell the experience which is ours alone, no-one else’s." - Sarah, Online Community member.
More World Cancer Day stories

Support for people affected by cancer

A dark green rotary phone on a light green background.

Macmillan services

Online community

For World Cancer Day, the Online Community is showcasing the support shared among its members in a new blog.

In the blog, community members share how the Community has made a difference in their lives.

A stack of four gold coins on a light green background.

Cancer and the cost of living

If you need help managing bills, advice on what benefits you might be entitled to read our information about cost of living and the help that is available. Or if you just want to chat about how you are feeling, we’re here to support. Call the Macmillan Support Line for free on 0800 808 00 00, 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week. 

Discover all the ways we can help

Ways to get involved on World Cancer Day

We are here for everybody living with cancer, with our specialist information, support and services. But we couldn't do it without our incredible supporters. Here are a few ways you can get involved.

Campaign with us
Be part of a movement of tens of thousands of people across the UK who are campaigning for better support for people living with cancer.
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Become a volunteer
The support provided by Macmillan volunteers is integral to helping us be there for people with cancer.
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Share your story
Sharing your experience of living with or caring for someone with cancer is a powerful way to help make the future better for people living with cancer.