National Cancer Control Month
April 1 - April 30
About National Cancer Control Month
National Cancer Control Month is observed every April in the United States. Established by presidential proclamation in 1943, it is one of the longest-running health awareness campaigns in the country, dedicated to increasing awareness of cancer prevention, early detection, treatment advances, and support for those affected by the disease.
What is National Cancer Control Month?
National Cancer Control Month is a month-long campaign that focuses on reducing the burden of cancer through education, screening, research, and community action. It brings together healthcare professionals, advocacy organisations, researchers, and individuals to promote behaviours and policies that can prevent cancer, detect it earlier, and improve outcomes for patients. The month encourages people to learn about their personal risk factors, stay up to date with recommended screenings, and support the organisations working to advance cancer treatment and care.
When is National Cancer Control Month?
National Cancer Control Month takes place every April, from 1 April to 30 April. In 2026, it runs from Wednesday, 1 April through Thursday, 30 April.
History of National Cancer Control Month
National Cancer Control Month has one of the most well-documented origins of any health awareness campaign in the United States. In April 1938, the American Society for the Control of Cancer (now the American Cancer Society) organised the first “National Cancer Control Month” to raise public awareness about the disease. Five years later, in 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first presidential proclamation designating April as Cancer Control Month, calling on all Americans to take part in the fight against cancer.
Every president since Roosevelt has continued the tradition of issuing an annual Cancer Control Month proclamation, making it one of the oldest recurring health awareness observances in the nation. The campaign has evolved significantly since its founding. In the early decades, the focus was primarily on encouraging early detection, particularly for cancers of the breast, cervix, and skin. As medical research advanced, the scope expanded to encompass prevention through lifestyle changes, the development of screening technologies, and the growing importance of clinical trials.
The National Cancer Act of 1971, signed by President Richard Nixon, dramatically increased federal funding for cancer research and established the framework for the modern cancer control infrastructure. Since then, cancer mortality rates in the United States have declined by approximately 33%, a reduction attributed to improvements in prevention, earlier detection, and more effective treatments. National Cancer Control Month continues to play a role in sustaining public attention on these efforts. April also hosts several related observances, including Testicular Cancer Awareness Week and Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month.
Why National Cancer Control Month Matters
Cancer remains the second leading cause of death in the United States, with an estimated 1.9 million new cancer diagnoses expected annually. However, research from the American Cancer Society indicates that approximately 40% of cancer cases and nearly half of all cancer deaths are linked to modifiable risk factors, including tobacco use, excess body weight, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption. National Cancer Control Month highlights the power of prevention and early detection, reminding people that many cancers are either preventable or far more treatable when caught early through regular screening.
How to Get Involved in National Cancer Control Month
There are many practical steps you can take during April to support cancer control efforts:
- Schedule your recommended screenings – Depending on your age and risk factors, screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer can detect problems early when treatment is most effective. Speak with your healthcare provider about which screenings are appropriate for you.
- Assess your personal risk factors – Use tools like the American Cancer Society’s risk assessment calculators to understand your individual risk profile. Family history, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures all play a role.
- Make one healthy lifestyle change – Use the month as motivation to quit smoking, increase your physical activity, improve your diet, or reduce alcohol consumption. Even modest changes can meaningfully reduce cancer risk over time.
- Learn about HPV vaccination – The HPV vaccine prevents several types of cancer, including cervical, throat, and anal cancer. If you or your children are eligible, discuss vaccination with your healthcare provider.
- Volunteer with a cancer organisation – Groups like the American Cancer Society, the National Foundation for Cancer Research, and local cancer support charities rely on volunteers for fundraising, patient transport, and awareness campaigns.
- Support someone living with cancer – If you know someone undergoing treatment, offer practical help such as meal delivery, transport to appointments, or simply being present. These everyday acts of support can make a significant difference.
- Advocate for cancer research funding – Contact your elected representatives to express support for continued investment in cancer research, equitable access to screening, and funding for treatment programmes that serve underinsured populations.
Noteworthy Facts About Cancer Control
- President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first Cancer Control Month proclamation in 1943, making it one of the oldest health awareness campaigns in the United States.
- Cancer mortality rates in the United States have declined by approximately 33% since their peak in 1991, preventing an estimated 3.8 million deaths.
- The five-year survival rate for all cancers combined has risen from 49% in the mid-1970s to approximately 68% today.
- An estimated 40% of cancer cases in the U.S. are linked to modifiable risk factors such as tobacco use, diet, and physical inactivity.
- The National Cancer Institute’s annual budget for cancer research exceeds $7 billion, funding everything from basic science to clinical trials and prevention programmes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Cancer Control Month?
National Cancer Control Month is observed every April in the United States. It raises awareness about cancer prevention, promotes early detection through screening, and supports research and treatment efforts.
When is National Cancer Control Month in 2026?
National Cancer Control Month runs from Wednesday, 1 April to Thursday, 30 April 2026.
How did National Cancer Control Month start?
The observance began with the American Society for the Control of Cancer in 1938 and was formalised by President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidential proclamation in 1943. Every U.S. president since has continued the tradition.
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by sharing National Cancer Control Month with your friends, family, and followers. Use the hashtags #CancerControlMonth and #CancerControlMonth2026 on social media. The more people who know about cancer prevention and early detection, the bigger the impact.
Related Awareness Days
- Bowel Cancer Awareness Month – Also observed in April, this month raises awareness about bowel cancer symptoms, screening, and early detection in the UK.
- Testicular Cancer Awareness Week – Running from 1 to 7 April, this week highlights the importance of self-examination and early diagnosis for testicular cancer.
- World Health Day – Celebrated on 7 April, this WHO-designated day draws attention to a specific global health priority each year.
Links
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