Watch above: Every year, eight million people worldwide die of cancer. Aaron Streck finds out how World Cancer Day helps bring awareness to the disease and encourage early diagnosis.
SASKATOON – Most people know someone affected by cancer.
“I can tell anyone, if you can survive the biopsy everything else is a piece of cake,” said prostate cancer survivor Art Battiste.
You would never know by his active lifestyle that Battiste, 72, was diagnosed in June 2012. Since having his prostate gland removed, he’s been cancer free.
“My life in essence is as good as it ever was and probably better because the relationships I have, have broadened and many of them are deeper,” said Battiste.
A month after his operation Battiste joined the Saskatoon prostate cancer support group, where members share their experiences.
“Principally, I try to tell people life can go on. I’ve had people call me and say I rode my horse for the last time today because I know if I have prostate cancer I’ll never be able to do it, hey that’s not right,” said Battiste.
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More than 8 million people die from cancer worldwide every year. Feb. 4 is the annual World Cancer Day, raising awareness of the deadly disease to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment.
READ MORE: World Cancer Day: Canadian hospital sheds light on cancer in youth
“In the 1940’s the survival rate was 25 per cent but today it’s 60 per cent, so 60 per cent of Canadians that are diagnosed with cancer will survive, so this is very promising but we still have a ways to go,” said Diana Ng, the cancer control coordinator with the Canadian Cancer Society Saskatchewan Division.
World Cancer Day is also an opportunity for Saskatoon residents and businesses to show support for the annual kick off to Light The Night Walk in October.
“We light our lanterns and encourage businesses and supporters around the city to participate and do that as well today,” said Aviva Zack, field manager for the Saskatchewan Light The Night Walk.
The Saskatoon Fire Department is among those involved.
“Cancer’s the number two cause of firefighter deaths in North America. Saskatchewan has had presumptive legislation for recognizing cancer as a cause of death for firefighters since 2003,” said Saskatoon Fire Department’s Anthony Tataryn.
Early detection is key and Battiste for one knows the importance of regular follow up check ups.
“We’re always careful to watch for signs that it’s back,” said Battiste.
World Cancer Day originated in 2000 at the first World Summit Against Cancer.
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