Supporting World Cancer Day 2017

February 4 2017 is World Cancer Day, a global event coordinated by the Union for International Cancer Control.

This year's international tagline, "We Can. I Can.", focuses on the many things that individuals and groups can do to reduce the burden of cancer across the globe.

With the event this year falling on a Saturday, the focus around the globe will be on supporting the event through sport and raising awareness of how physical activity can help reduce your cancer risk.

In Australia, Cancer Council has been selected as the official charity partner for the HSBC Sydney 7's, which is being held in Sydney over the World Cancer Day weekend.

The event is part of the international HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series and brings people together from around the world.

As well as fundraising at the games by selling programmes, Cancer Council will be using it as an opportunity to remind Australians about how they can cut their cancer risk by taking simple steps like quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight and diet, exercising, reducing their alcohol intake, being SunSmart and getting checked.

Professor Sanchia Aranda, CEO Cancer Council Australia and President of the Union for International Cancer Control says that many Australians may not realise that one in three Australian cancer cases can be prevented.

"This year it is estimated that around 140,000 Australians will be diagnosed with cancer. However, approximately one third of those cases are caused by preventable lifestyle risk factors. Sporting events provide a great opportunity to bring people together and educate communities about cancer prevention and early detection, as well as show support for those directly affected.

"Regular physical activity is one of the simplest ways individuals can reduce their cancer risk and also helps encourage other healthy lifestyle habits, like maintaining a healthy weight and diet, and not smoking. Increasingly evidence suggests exercise also has benefits for cancer survivors and those undergoing treatment."

The Union for International Cancer Control is also encouraging sporting groups and individuals to get behind the event by posting a photo related to sport with the #WeCanICan hashtag.

For more information on local events, how you can support World Cancer Day on social media and the event itself, head to www.worldcancerday.org