This World Cancer Day, let’s not just raise awareness but take action to protect ourselves and our loved ones with the best cancer insurance plan.
The theme for World Cancer Day 2025-2027 is ‘United by Unique,’ which explores people-centered cancer care and new ways of bringing change. This theme is a key part of a three-year campaign running from 2025 to 2027, centered around the personal stories of cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. The initiative advocates for more personalized treatment approaches while fostering empathy, compassion, and diversity in cancer care.
Together, we can work towards a world where cancer no longer disrupts lives, and everyone has access to the care they need when they need it most.
History of World Cancer Day
On February 4th, 2000, the World Summit Against Cancer for the New Millennium was held in Paris, marking the beginning of World Cancer Day. The introduction of World Cancer Day is a key component of the Paris Charter, which also seeks to advance cancer research, prevention, patient care, awareness, and worldwide mobilization.
5 Common Types of Cancer
1. Breast Cancer
To lower the risk of breast cancer, which is common in women, it's important to stay at a healthy weight, exercise regularly, avoid drinking alcohol, and get regular check-ups like mammograms to catch any problems early.
Symptoms:
- A lump in the breast or underarm
- Change in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast
- Unexplained pain in the breast or nipple
- Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
- Skin changes on the breast, like redness or dimpling
2. Lung Cancer
While smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer, exposure to radon gas, secondhand smoke, and air pollution can also contribute to the disease. Quitting smoking and reducing exposure to environmental pollutants can significantly lower the risk of lung cancer.
Symptoms:
- Persistent cough that doesn’t go away or worsens over time
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Chest pain or discomfort, especially when coughing
- Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum
- Weight loss
- Fatigue or feeling weak
Also Read: Everything you need to know about Lung Cancer
3. Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is mostly caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). You can reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer by getting the HPV vaccine, having regular Pap smears, and practicing safe sex.
Symptoms:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding (such as bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause)
- Unusual vaginal discharge (which may be watery, bloody, or have a strong odor)
- Pain during intercourse
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
4. Liver Cancer
Liver cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the liver. It often develops in people with chronic liver conditions such as cirrhosis or hepatitis. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving survival chances.
Symptoms:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen or right side
- Swelling or bloating in the abdomen
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue or weakness
5. Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the skin cells. It usually looks like a new growth or a change in an existing mole or spot on the skin. Early detection and treatment can help prevent it from spreading.
Symptoms:
- A new mole or growth on the skin
- Changes in the size, shape, or color of an existing mole
- Itchy, bleeding, or crusting skin lesions
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- Pain or tenderness around a mole or spot
Why Should You Consider Cancer Insurance?
Cancer treatment can be costly and often lasts a long time. The disease can affect families physically, emotionally, and financially. Even if you have a good health insurance policy, it may not cover all cancer-related treatment costs. Additionally, coverage might have conditions depending on the stage of cancer. A cancer insurance plan helps bridge these gaps and offers financial support.
Key Benefits of Buying a Cancer Insurance Plan
- Multiple Cancer Stages—It covers cancer at different stages.
- Lump Sum Payout—A one-time payment is made to the insured when cancer is diagnosed.
- Premium Waiver—The premium may be waived if the cancer is diagnosed at an early stage.
- Sum Insured Enhancement—If there are no claims during the year, the amount of coverage increases by a certain percentage.
- Monthly Payout—Monthly payments are made for a specific number of years, especially in the case of major cancer.
- Continuum of Coverage—The coverage doesn’t end after the first diagnosis of cancer under some plans.
- Tax Benefits—You can get tax benefits on premiums paid under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act.
When Should You Buy Cancer Insurance?
You should think about getting a cancer insurance plan if:
- You have a family history of cancer.
- You believe you’re at higher risk due to environmental factors or other reasons.
- You don’t have enough savings to cover large medical bills.
- Your regular health insurance doesn’t offer sufficient coverage.
- You are the sole breadwinner in your family.
The Best Cancer Insurance Plans
- HDFC Ergo Lifelong Cancer Coverage Plan
- Aditya Birla Active Cancer Secure Plan
- Bajaj Allianz Critical Care Insurance Plan
- Care Cancer Mediclaim Plan
- Digit Cancer Health Insurance Plan
The Key Takeaway
Cancer can strike when we least expect it, but with the right protection, we can face it with strength and confidence. A Cancer Insurance Plan reduces the burden of financial stress, allowing you to focus on what truly matters. This World Cancer Day, let’s make a real difference by giving everyone the peace of mind they deserve—because protection is power.
