World Cancer Day - Let's Break The Barriers Of Cancer Care

Author: Saumya Khanduja on Feb 01,2022

Observed every year on February 4th, World Cancer Day is essential in this day and age! Understand why this global initiative is so important to inspire and raise awareness in preventing, detecting, and treating cancer. 

 

World Cancer Day this year will mark the first of essential events in the newly developed three-year campaign targeted around issues of equity. 

 

The theme of this three-year-long campaign is "Close The Care Gap." The theme aims at recognizing the power of knowledge and all the challenges society faces when it comes to disease. In the first year of this campaign, we come together to close this "gap," also known as lack of equity in context to the disease. The gap emphasizes care and barriers that have long existed for multiple years. These gaps have reduced the chances for people to garner the help they need to survive cancer. 

 

Cancer - Definition 

 

Cancer is a disease that occurs when there are changes in a group of cells inside the human body. These changes often lead to an abnormal and uncontrolled growth that forms a lump inside, called a tumor. The formation of a lump holds true to everything except leukemia, which is cancer of the blood. 

 

If left untreated, cancerous tumors can rapidly grow and spread into the surrounding areas of the normal tissue as well as to other parts of the human body. Cancer can also spread to one's bloodstream, lymphatic system, digestive, nervous as well as circulatory systems. They can also easily release hormones that can affect the body's function. 

 

Close The Care Gap - Barriers In the Way of Cancer Care 

 

This World Cancer Day, with Close The Care Gap, there are multiple barriers that stand in the way of cancer care. 

 

These barriers can depend on factors like where you live, who you are, where you are coming from. All of these barriers are social determinants of health, and these determinants are the factors that stand unfairly between people and cancer prevention, diagnosis as well as treatment plans. 

 

Gender Discrimination 

 

All around the world, women suffer from discrimination due to deep-rooted misogyny, gender roles, and all kinds of stereotypes. Some cultural and religious contexts further limit timely access to cancer care for women. Stigma, as well as ostracisation, also surrounds cervical and breast cancer, which makes women reluctant to seek cancer care and screening. In certain parts of the world, women might need all kinds of approvals and permissions from the male head of their families to visit doctors. 

 

In some cases, men also face the negative consequences of gender discrimination and societal and cultural taboos. 

 

Social norms that surround masculinity make men less willing to open up and discuss their health issues with their healthcare professionals. Therefore, considering life-saving procedures like surgeries for prostate cancer is out of the question since it relates to incontinence and impotence in some societies. 

 

Minorities 

 

Racism comes with major impacts on a person's ability to have access to the right cancer care. Minority populations at times face barriers when it comes to access to basic healthcare. 

 

In over 90 countries, indigenous people represent just a mere 6% of the world's population. They also account for approximately 15% of the poor population. Indigenous people also face poor health outcomes around the world. Along with systematic discrimination and human rights, cultural differences can also worsen minority populations' exposure to the right healthcare and indulge in behavior that constitutes high-risk for cancer in the long run. 

 

Socioeconomic status 

 

Poverty can also limit a person's access to quality healthcare. In all kinds of countries, people with lower socioeconomic status are less likely to get access to quality healthcare. There will be countless obstacles and challenges in the way to receiving the right healthcare, including transportation, inability to take time off, affordable childcare, getting screened, health insurance, and other financial means. 

 

No matter where these people live, if they are diagnosed with cancer at a certain time, they are more likely to experience a catastrophe within 12 months of being diagnosed. 

 

Rural vs. Urban 

 

People who live in rural areas can face multiple obstacles between them and their chances of surviving cancer. Lack of prevention, screening, and treatment also means traveling for a longer duration to get the right access to resources and healthcare. The financial burden involved is enough to stop people from getting the right help. Other factors here include the need to secure affordable housing, childcare, and getting some time off work. All of these factors and costs combined are insurmountable. 

 

Due to this, your geographic location often determines whether you get to live or not! 

 

Rural patients usually get diagnosed during later stages in their lives, and they are less likely to get the necessary care and treatment they need. They also lose their chances of getting any further consultations, follow-ups, and other supportive services they require that are a part of clinical trials. These could be their one chance at survival! 

 

Discrimination on the basis of age 

 

How old a person is should not decide the quality of healthcare and cancer treatments they receive. Yet, discrimination on the basis of age is a living reality for thousands across the world. Cancer can develop at any age and the risk of the same developing manifolds with age. 

 

Over half the people with cancer are over the age of 65. Early cancer symptoms are often mistaken with other daily pain or minor illnesses. Most cancer patients are diagnosed too late in life. This is further exacerbated because of the lack of appropriate programs or services aimed at responding to the needs of older people. 

 

In fact, while more and more older people are diagnosed with cancer in contrast to younger people, older people are often underrepresented in research that sets standards for treatment for cancer. 

 

Ageism is something that seems to pervade all kinds of cultures and institutions, which is often a contributing factor to the rise in barriers. 

 

Here are a few ways in which older adults are denied equitable care for cancer. 

 

1. An increased percentage of older women with breast cancer often receive fewer chemotherapy sessions in contrast to their younger counterparts, despite all the evidence regarding its efficacy. 

2. Over 70% of deaths occurring because of prostate cancer happen among men above the age of 75. They are often detected with an aggressive version of the disease. Some older patients also do not receive the appropriate localized access to chemotherapy and other treatment actions for localized prostate cancer. 

3. Another form of cancer that has, for many years, disproportionately affected older populations is colorectal cancer. However, evidence regarding the optimal treatments of the same is not suggested correctly to older patients. 

 

Being a refugee 

In various countries, like Syria, political upheaval and other forms of instability pierce through all strata of the nation. Countries going through wars, natural disasters, and other forms of social upheaval come across a harrowing shortage of resources along with a breakdown of all the fundamental health services. The majority of people in such countries with an advanced stage of cancer are unable to get the necessary healthcare they deserve. These regions become inaccessible in terms of healthcare services. The hospitals are either destroyed or damaged, and healthcare professionals are either killed or injured/displaced. 

 

Apart from this, cancer patients, along with refugees fleeing away from such countries, can experience their own set of obstacles and physical and emotional trauma. Other incidences they have to face are limited financial resources, cultural/language barriers, etc. that also affect their cancer care. 

 

Homophobia and transphobia 

All around the world, even today, gays, lesbians, transgender people, bisexuals, intersex, and queer still face discrimination and hostility by society. Like others on the list, the LGBTQ+ community is also likely to face prejudice and ignorance from healthcare providers around the world and might not get their deserved access to cancer care. 

 

In addition to the prejudices and ignorance of healthcare, fear of poor treatment by the healthcare providers also drives them away from getting timely access to effective cancer care. 

 

This form of discrimination can take a heavy toll on their lives and health. Not only this, but it can also lead to a toll on their behavior, increasing the risk of cancer. They can start being addicted to unhealthy habits like smoking, drinking, and drug abuse, as they seek other ways to self-medicate in order to cope with the world that's too hostile towards their very existence. 

 

Understanding the lack of equity is often the first step!

Lack of equity is omnipresent. These barriers are just a few ways in which people around the globe, from all walks of life and demographics, can be deprived of cancer care. Despite the long list of barriers and countless injustices worldwide depriving people of their deserved cancer care, most prejudices are ingrained in our society, mentality, and systems. 

 

However, there is no obstacle that can't be overcome. There is hope! World Cancer Day is that hope. It is the first step to recognizing inequality that comes along with cancer. World Cancer Day is a day that offers us the perspective of people living and fighting against cancer on a daily basis. It is a day we choose to come forward and fight to close these inequity gaps! 

 

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brain fog

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Best Mood Boosting Foods and Adaptogen Foods for You

 Food isn't just fuel - it sets the tone for how you feel every single day. If you've ever noticed how a sugar-heavy breakfast leaves you cranky by noon or how a hearty balanced meal makes you calm, that's the direct link between what you eat and your mood. The truth is, there are certain mood boosting foods that can genuinely lift your energy, sharpen focus, and keep stress in check. Alongside that, there's a special category known as adaptogens foods, herbs and plants that support your body's stress response.Both play different roles but work brilliantly together. Let's break them down in a way that's easy to use, with actual food examples and some practical ways to fit them into daily life.What Makes a Food "Mood Boosting"?Not every meal has the power to shift your mood, but some foods do because of the nutrients they carry. Mood boosting food usually contains one (or more) of the following:Tryptophan and amino acids - precursors to serotonin and dopamine, your "feel-good" brain chemicals.Healthy fats - the brain thrives on good fats, especially omega-3s.Magnesium and B vitamins - critical for stress regulation and nerve health.Antioxidants - they fight oxidative stress, which otherwise drags down mood and energy.Stable carbs and fiber - they prevent blood sugar crashes, which are classic triggers for irritability.That's the science. But in plain terms: foods that keep your energy steady, protect your brain, and help your body make the right chemicals fall under mood boosting foods.Also check: 10 Easy and Healthy Nutrition Recipes for a Balanced DietAdaptogens Foods: A Step BeyondNow, adaptogens are a different story. Think of them as herbs and roots that don't just nourish but actually train your body to handle stress better. Adaptogens food doesn't just fill you up - it interacts with your adrenal system, balancing cortisol (your stress hormone), improving resilience, and helping you recover from mental and physical fatigue.Some examples of classic adaptogens foods include:Ashwagandha - calming, supports sleep and reduces anxiety.Tulsi (Holy Basil) - clears the head, great for stress relief.Maca root - energy and hormone balance.Reishi mushrooms - grounding, immune supportive, calming.Licorice root - supports adrenal function, especially in times of burnout.The beauty of foods with adaptogens is that you don't need huge amounts. A small spoon of powder in your smoothie, a tulsi tea at night, or even an herbal snack ball can be enough.How Mood Boosting Foods and Adaptogens Work TogetherMood boosting foods cover your daily base: steady energy, brain support, and nutrient balance.Adaptogens foods come in as extra armor, especially during stress-heavy weeks or when you feel mentally drained.For example: oatmeal with berries and chia seeds is a solid mood-boosting food breakfast. Add a teaspoon of maca powder, and suddenly it becomes a meal that also falls into the "foods with adaptogens" category.Everyday Mood Boosting Foods to Keep AroundHere's a breakdown of everyday mood-boosting foods you can actually eat without hunting down rare ingredients:Fatty fish - Salmon, sardines, and mackerel are loaded with omega-3s. These fats keep brain cells flexible and directly impact mood regulation.Eggs - They pack protein, vitamin B12, and choline. Great for steady energy.Dark leafy greens - Spinach, kale, Swiss chard: magnesium powerhouses. Low magnesium is linked to higher stress and anxiety.Nuts and seeds - Almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, chia, flax. They give you healthy fats and fiber.Berries - Antioxidant rich and naturally sweet. They fight oxidative stress, which is often overlooked in mood discussions.Dark chocolate - Real chocolate (70%+ cocoa), not candy bars. It improves blood flow in the brain and offers a quick mental lift.Fermented foods - Yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut. Your gut and brain are connected, so a healthy gut = better mood.Whole grains - Brown rice, oats, quinoa. They prevent the sugar spikes and dips that wreck your mood.Keep these on rotation, and you'll notice fewer crashes and more mental stability.Also check: 10 Outrageously Delicious Sandwich Ideas To Blow Your MindAdaptogens Foods You Can Actually UseNow let's get specific with adaptogens food you can start with. These herbs may sound "wellness trendy," but they've been used for centuries in Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and traditional healing.Ashwagandha: Best for people dealing with anxiety, irritability, or sleep struggles. Works well in warm milk or even chocolate drinks.Tulsi (Holy Basil): Excellent in tea form. It has a calming yet clear-headed effect, ideal for mid-day breaks.Licorice root: Often made into tea. Good for fatigue, but if you have blood pressure issues, use lightly.Maca: The easiest adaptogen to use. Toss a spoonful into smoothies or oatmeal. It has a nutty, earthy flavor.Reishi: Great for evenings because it calms the nervous system. Works best as tea or powder.Lion's Mane: A mushroom that supports focus and memory. Many people use it in coffee alternatives.These are not instant fixes - adaptogens foods work over time. Think weeks, not days.Recipes with Foods and AdaptogensAdding adaptogens doesn't have to feel complicated. Here are some easy examples inspired by Ayurvedic recipes:Tulsi Date Nut Balls - Blend dates, cashews, and sunflower seeds with a spoon of tulsi powder. Roll into bite-size snacks. You get healthy fats + fiber + adaptogens.Ashwagandha Hot Chocolate - Mix cocoa powder, a dash of cinnamon, and ashwagandha into warm almond milk. Sweeten with honey if you like.Maca Oatmeal Bowl - Make oatmeal, then stir in maca powder, berries, and a spoon of almond butter. That's mood boosting food plus adaptogens food in one bowl.Rose Licorice Latte - Steep licorice root with rose petals, then add warm milk. A calming drink for winding down.These little swaps are how you transform regular meals into foods with adaptogens without making your diet complicated.Building a Mood-Friendly Day of EatingHere's how you could structure meals to get a mix of mood-boosting foods and adaptogens foods:Breakfast: Oats with chia seeds, blueberries, walnuts, and a spoon of maca.Snack: Yogurt with flaxseed and a few dark chocolate chips.Lunch: Grilled salmon, quinoa, and spinach salad with olive oil.Afternoon: Tulsi tea with a tulsi date nut ball.Dinner: Stir-fry with chicken or tofu, colorful veggies, garlic, ginger, and brown rice. Add turmeric for extra antioxidants.Evening: Rose licorice latte or ashwagandha hot chocolate.This plan shows how both categories fit naturally into daily life.Things to Keep in MindStart small - especially with adaptogens. Half a teaspoon in tea or smoothies is plenty.Quality matters - not all powders or teas are pure. Buy from trusted brands.Don't skip basics - eating an occasional adaptogen while living on processed food won't work. The foundation is still balanced meals.Patience is key - mood boosting foods often show quick benefits, but adaptogens foods work slowly and steadily.Why This Matters NowStress, low energy, and anxiety are everywhere. People turn to caffeine or sugar for quick fixes, but those crash later. Building your diet around mood-boosting foods and sprinkling in foods with adaptogens is a smarter, long-term strategy. You feel better, sleep better, and handle challenges without burning out.Don't Miss: 9 Delicious Ice Cream Topping Ideas For Your Next Party!Final ThoughtsThe takeaway is simple: your plate is a powerful tool. Mood boosting food keeps you balanced day to day, while adaptogens food builds resilience over time. You don't need exotic rituals - just small additions like tulsi tea, dark chocolate with ashwagandha, or a maca oatmeal bowl.When you combine these consistently, your body doesn't just survive stress - it adapts to it. That's the difference between dragging yourself through the week and actually feeling steady, calm, and energized.