Celebrating Unique Perspectives on World Cancer Day: Stories from the NCCN Advocates

Advocating for Unique Patient Experiences on World Cancer Day

On February 4, 2025, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®) joined a global initiative to observe World Cancer Day, emphasizing the importance of celebrating individual cancer experiences. This year's theme, 'United by Unique,' aims to spotlight the diverse stories of patients affected by cancer, reinforcing the necessity of a people-centered approach to cancer care.

World Cancer Day is orchestrated by the Union of International Cancer Control (UICC) and seeks to elevate awareness about cancer risks while promoting actions for heightened prevention, early detection, and improved treatment options. In line with this objective, the NCCN's campaign champions a shift towards recognizing each patient's unique story and their specific needs.

NCCN has always been at the forefront of advancing patient-centered cancer care. By publishing the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology, the organization provides evidence-based recommendations that healthcare providers can rely on for the best practices in cancer treatment, prevention, and supportive services. The guidelines are updated annually by expert panels that include patient advocates, ensuring that the realities and challenges faced by patients are widely considered.

Sharing Personal Journeys

As part of their World Cancer Day observance, several patient advocates shared their personal experiences. Ruth Fein Revell, a journalist, author, and member of the NCCN Guidelines® Panel for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN), has lived with chronic, evolving cancer for over three decades. Diagnosed at the age of 38, she poignantly noted, "People feel invisible and misunderstood with chronic cancer. We don’t have the luxury of reaching a conclusion to our treatment; our fight continues every day." Revell recognized that patients know their bodies better than anyone and called attention to the spectrum of symptoms and risks they face.

Laura Porter, MD, a member of the NCCN Guidelines Panel for Colorectal Cancer Screening, brought her insights as a cancer survivor diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer at age 43. Dr. Porter experienced significant challenges, including delayed diagnoses due to her age and lack of family history of cancer. "Life changes completely after a cancer diagnosis. Your new normal feels entirely abnormal, and it forces you to take steps to protect your loved ones that you never thought you would have to, especially during such a vulnerable time," said Dr. Porter. Having been cancer-free for 18 years, she is now dedicated to advocacy, urging researchers and healthcare professionals to prioritize what truly matters to patients.

Empowering Patients Through Information

Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, the CEO of NCCN, emphasized the essential role of informed decision-making in cancer care: "We believe that informed, shared decision-making is vital. By providing trustworthy information through the NCCN Guidelines for Patients, we empower individuals and caregivers to actively participate in their treatment journeys."

The NCCN Guidelines for Patients aggregate expert-vetted information into comprehensible formats, making it easier for patients to engage with their healthcare professionals as active participants in their care. These resources are available for free via the NCCN website and the NCCN Patient Guides for Cancer App, thanks to contributions from the NCCN Foundation.

For more information about the NCCN's initiatives and resources tailored to the cancer community, you can browse their dedicated section for World Cancer Day at NCCN.org/wcd.

Through its 30 years of dedication to improving cancer care, the NCCN continues to ensure that quality and accessibility in cancer treatment remain a priority for everyone impacted by this disease. The NCCN Foundation also celebrates 15 years of providing education and support through its resources, ensuring individuals facing cancer get the guidance they need in times of uncertainty.

Conclusion

World Cancer Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing each unique experience within the cancer journey. By sharing personal stories and fostering an environment of trust and shared information, organizations like the NCCN are paving the way for a transformative approach to cancer care that genuinely considers the perspectives of patients and advocates alike.