02/02/2026
World Cancer Day, an international awareness day observed every year on 4th February, is dedicated to raising awareness of the disease and its impact on all those who are affected.
The theme this year, “United by Unique”, places people at the centre of care and explores new ways of making a difference.
Led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), #WorldCancerDay plays an important role in uniting communities, charities, organisations, and governments to address the global cancer epidemic.
“By catalysing personal, collective and government action, we are all working together to reimagine a world where millions of cancer deaths are prevented and access to life-saving cancer treatment and care is equitable for all no matter who you are and where you live.” https://www.worldcancerday.org/
Supporting Local Communities and Raising Awareness
In honour of World Cancer Day 2026, we shed light on some of the local charities we have been proud to support in varying ways:
The Hospice of the Good Shepherd provides palliative care and support for residents of Cheshire West and Deeside to patients, their carers, and families who are living with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.
Macmillan raises money to provide vital cancer services, research and campaigns for better cancer care.
Bolton Hospice provides expert care and support for local people facing terminal or life-limiting illnesses, and their families, in the hospice, at their wellbeing hub and in the home.
Brian Research UK is the leading national funder dedicated to research into neurological conditions.
Boot Out Breast Cancer was set up in by Debbie Dowie who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009. Through its fund-raising events, the charity has provided equipment to many local hospitals, including The Royal Bolton NHS Hospital, The Nightingale Centre NHS hospital in South Manchester and Thomas Linacre Breast Centre at Wrightington Wigan.
The Countess Charity works with the local community, corporates and grant making trusts to raise money for over 80 funds across the hospital - each one making a real difference to patient care.
Each of these causes matters deeply to members of our team, and Russell & Russell will continue to support them and others like them in 2026.
The Impact of Delayed Diagnosis
According to Macmillan Cancer Support, the number of people living with cancer in the UK has now reached almost 3.5 million, but as highlighted by Cancer Research UK, referrals to treatment targets are still being missed: Cancer waiting times: Latest updates and analysis.
At Russell & Russell Solicitors, we have seen the devastating impact that delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis can have on you and your family. Our medical negligence team have represented many patients and their families who have been affected by exposure to asbestos, delays in diagnosis, misdiagnosis, or mistreatment.
If you have suffered from medical negligence, we understand the effect it can have on your life, which is why we’ll handle your case with professionalism, care and sensitivity and can secure the compensation you deserve. To speak with a member of our team, please call 0800 103 2600 or make an online enquiry.
This article is not intended to be taken as advice or acted upon, and information may have changed since publication.
Please note that this article is meant as general guidance and not intended as legal or professional advice. Updates to the law may have changed since this article was published.