Talk About the Big C This World Cancer Day. World Cancer Day 2026 is a powerful reminder that talking about cancer can save lives. By opening honest, informed conversations about cancer screening, early detection and personalised treatment, we can reduce fear, improve outcomes and give more South Africans the chance to live longer, healthier lives.
Talk About the Big C This World Cancer Day
Pharmacists at Medipost Pharmacy are encouraging everyone to use World Cancer Day as a starting point to talk about “the Big C” — at home, with healthcare providers and in our communities. “Most of us avoid thinking about cancer because it’s frightening,” says specialised medication pharmacist Mmanoko Maduane of Medipost Pharmacy. “That fear often stops people from asking doctors about routine cancer screenings that could save their lives.”
Why Talking About Cancer Is the First Step to Saving Lives
She explains that conversations about cancer screening should be age-appropriate and based on personal risk factors — especially for people with a family history of cancer.
“Knowing which screenings you need, and when, is one of the most powerful tools we have against cancer,” Maduane adds.
Why Lifesaving Cancer Conversations Matter
Advances in early cancer detection and personalised treatment have transformed patient outcomes. Many cancers, when found early, are highly treatable — with some showing five-year survival rates of up to 99%.
“Cancers detected early often require less invasive treatment and offer better quality of life,” Maduane explains. “This makes regular cancer screening one of the most effective ways to reduce risk and protect both ourselves and our loved ones.”
Early Cancer Detection Can Change Everything
According to specialised medication pharmacist Shama Louwrens, screening is especially important because some cancers can be detected before symptoms develop.
“Screenings like Pap smears and colonoscopies can identify precancerous cell changes,” she says. “That means cancer can sometimes be prevented altogether.”
This World Cancer Day, Louwrens encourages South Africans to take responsibility for their health. “Awareness and proactive screening can significantly improve survival rates, treatment options and long-term quality of life.”
Cancer Screenings That Can Prevent Disease Before Symptoms Appear
The theme of World Cancer Day, United by Unique, highlights that cancer affects people of all ages and backgrounds — and that every diagnosis represents a real person, not just a statistic.
“Cancer doesn’t discriminate,” says Maduane. “Every patient’s journey is unique, which is why individualised care is so important.”
Personalised Cancer Treatment and Pharmacy Support
Modern cancer treatment is increasingly targeted and tailored to the individual. Options may include:
- Chemotherapy for aggressive or advanced cancers
- Hormone therapy for hormone receptor-positive cancers
- Targeted therapies designed for specific cancer subtypes
- Supportive medication to manage pain and reduce side effects
