WE CAN. I CAN. CAMPAIGN REPORT World Cancer Day 2016 was a truly astonishing milestone on many levels exceeding all expectations in engagement and visibility around the world. With 17.9 billion media opportunities to see, hear or read about the day and a tremendous presence on social media with two billion tweet impressions on Twitter for example, not only does World Cancer Day continue to grow in high-level figures, but its impact is increasing also, with over 900 events taking place in 129 countries. It has become ‘the’ platform for the launch of meaningful initiatives, announcements and events, not only by organisations and communities, but also by individuals. This year, at least 20 national governments used the day as an opportunity to join the movement and contributed to adding real value to the cancer cause. Many cancer survivors also raised their voice to advocate for a cancer-free world and increase awareness through their own experience with the disease.
The ‘We can. I can.’ campaign reinforces positive and action-oriented messaging about cancer and encourages the engagement of organisations and individuals in raising awareness and taking action against the disease – aided by the fact that campaign materials were available in 40 languages. It is thanks to the collaborative efforts of so many stakeholders that 4 February is now so universally marked across all sectors at international, national and local levels. We are very proud to share the amazing results of this campaign which is helping World Cancer Day become one of the biggest global health days in terms of influence and awareness raising, with the aim of sending out a positive and inspirational message about cancer to all corners of the planet.