World Cholangiocarcinoma Day, observed on the third Thursday in February from 2023 onwards, is an international day that is observed to raise awareness about a very rare but aggressive type of cancer. It takes place on February 20 this year. Did you know that about 11,000 cases of cholangiocarcinoma are diagnosed each year in the United States? Yes, it is one of the rarest and most deadly forms of cancer. So, what exactly is cholangiocarcinoma, and how can it be prevented? Here’s everything you need to know about World Cholangiocarcinoma Day.
History of World Cholangiocarcinoma Day
Cholangiocarcinoma is a rare type of cancer that develops in the bile ducts and small tubes that carry digestive fluids in and around the liver. It also affects the gallbladder. On World Cholangiocarcinoma Day, doctors, healthcare workers, cancer survivors, and activists come together to raise much-needed awareness of this form of liver cancer.
One of the main reasons why cholangiocarcinoma is regarded as the deadliest form of cancer is that it is difficult to diagnose. Currently, there are no specific screening tests to detect this disease. In fact, people impacted by this disease often have no symptoms at all. So, how do people identify this disease? In most cases, bile duct tumors are usually found during tests or procedures for other bile duct or liver conditions, like gallstones. Another reason why this disease is deadly is due to its nature. Cholangiocarcinoma impacts the liver and bile duct. A healthy liver is essential for ingestion and detoxification. But for patients touched by cholangiocarcinoma, the tumors in the bile duct prevent the liver from carrying out certain functions, resulting in conditions like jaundice, weight loss, abdominal pain, and toxin build-up in the system.
So, identifying the disease early is an effective treatment option. Unfortunately, cholangiocarcinoma is a poorly understood and under-researched disease that is increasing in incidence globally. So, moving forward let’s all take a stand to follow healthy habits to maintain a healthy liver and support and help those who are battling cancer.
World Cholangiocarcinoma Day timeline
Researcher Rudolph Virchow identifies white blood cells in cancerous tissue.
Hilario de Gouvea finds that susceptibility to cancer can be passed on from a parent to a child.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt establishes the National Cancer Institute.
Congress passes the 21st Century Cures Act that provides funding for a cancer research program.
World Cholangiocarcinoma Day FAQs
Why do people get cancer?
The main reasons why people get cancer are genetics and certain environmental or behavioral triggers. Some cancers are caused due to our lifestyle and habits.
What is the survival rate of cholangiocarcinoma?
If the cancer is diagnosed in an early stage, the five-year survival rate is 15%. The earlier it is diagnosed, the better the chances of recovering.
Can cholangiocarcinoma be cured?
Currently, surgery remains the only possibility for a cure for the disease. However, research is still going on, and let’s hope a cure is found.
How to Observe World Cholangiocarcinoma Day
Pledge your support
You can visit the official World Cholangiocarcinoma Day website and take a pledge. This will help make a difference in the world.
Shine the light
You can post about this deadly disease on social media, email a photo to your friends, or the official website of World Cholangiocarcinoma Day and pledge a signature. This will add a new light to the world map on the website.
Share your survivor story
If you’re a survivor of this deadly disease, share your amazing story of battle and survival with the world. This might help and encourage others to fight against this disease.
5 Deadly Facts About Cholangiocarcinoma And Cancer
Identifying it early is paramount
When identified at an advanced stage, the five-year survival rate is less than 20%.
The economic cost of cancer
The total annual economic cost of cancer is estimated at US$1.16 trillion.
Cancer kills
Cancer is the second-leading cause of death worldwide.
They are preventable
More than half of all cancers are preventable.
Age group
It used to be that over 65s were most at risk, but there is a new trend over and above the age range in the past few years.
Why World Cholangiocarcinoma Day is Important
It raises awareness
World Cholangiocarcinoma Day is a much-needed day that raises awareness about one of the deadliest forms of cancer. Observing this day and spreading the news would help those in need.
It helps those who are affected
People who are affected by Cholangiocarcinoma can visit the AMMF Charity website that provides information and help regarding cholangiocarcinoma. You could point them to the information
It promotes research
Coming together and observing this day not only helps raise awareness but also contributes to promoting research and funding to find a cure to this disease. If it is in your heart to donate, it will help a lot.
World Cholangiocarcinoma Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | February 17 | Thursday |
| 2023 | February 16 | Thursday |
| 2026 | February 19 | Thursday |
| 2024 | February 15 | Thursday |
| 2025 | February 20 | Thursday |
Log In With Google