Four steps to life before, during and after cancer

Cancer is a major global challenge that threatens human health, severely impairs physical function, and profoundly impacts people's quality of life and mental well-being.

According to 2024 data released by the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer has become one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In 2022, the number of new global malignant tumor cases reached 19.97 million, an increase of nearly 700,000 compared to 2020. Among them, lung cancer had the highest incidence rate, accounting for 12.4 percent, followed by breast cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, gastric cancer, and liver cancer. More alarmingly, the incidence of cancer among people under 50 is rising significantly worldwide – a trend that is equally severe in China.

Data from the "2022 Analysis of the Epidemic Situation of Malignant Tumors in China," released by the National Cancer Center, indicate that in 2022, approximately 4.82 million new cancer cases occurred in China, resulting in an incidence rate of 341.75 per 100,000 people.

CGTN host Li Dongning conducted an exclusive interview with Professor Mikkael Sekeres, Chief of Hematology at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Health System (USA). During the interview, he explained the definition of cancer in simple terms and the reasons behind the global increase in cases, offering practical lifestyle advice for cancer prevention. Additionally, he clearly outlines the characteristics and use cases of various cancer treatment methods to help people eliminate fears about cancer and doubts about treatment. Most importantly, the professor shares real-life experiences of patients from his clinical practice to deliver a heartfelt message of strength: having cancer is not the end of life – you are still yourself, and you should cherish the people and things in the present even more, while approaching life with a positive attitude.

Executive Producer: Zhang Jingwen

Producer: Yang Sha

Director: Zhang Yuying

Video Editor: Chen Qingxuan 

Cover Photo Designer: Qu Bo