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National Cancer Prevention Month

Join the fight against cancer this month - learn more about prevention, get regular check-ups, and spread awareness!

Monday

1–28

February 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of February

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYCancer

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

February 1 marks the start of National Cancer Prevention Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness and educating people on how they can reduce their risk of cancer. This annual event was created in 2017 by the American Cancer Society as part of their mission to save lives from cancer. From making healthy lifestyle choices to getting regular check-ups, there are many simple steps individuals can take to help lower their risk for this disease. So join us in celebrating National Cancer Prevention Month and help spread the word about reducing cancer risks!

TIMELINE

National Cancer Prevention Month Timeline

American Cancer Society Founded

The American Cancer Society was founded in 1913 by physicians and business leaders in New York City. It is known for its work in cancer research and prevention.

Pap Smear Introduced

George Papanicolaou introduces the Pap smear test for early detection of cervical cancer, demonstrating the effectiveness of regular screening for cancer prevention.

Surgeon General's Report on Smoking

The Surgeon General's Report on Smoking and Health is published, definitively linking lung cancer to smoking, which leads to anti-smoking measures and smoking cessation programs.

National Cancer Act Passed

The National Cancer Act was signed into law by President Richard Nixon, increasing federal funding for cancer research and establishing the National Cancer Institute.

HPV Link to Cervical Cancer

Scientists officially establish the link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer, leading to the creation of the HPV vaccine as a preventive measure.

National Cancer Prevention Month

The American Association for Cancer Research launches the first "National Cancer Prevention Month" to raise awareness about cancer prevention strategies.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Cancer Prevention Month

Educate yourself

Take time to learn about the causes and prevention of cancer. Research the risks associated with specific types of cancer, and find out what you can do to reduce your risk.

MAKE

Make lifestyle changes

Implement changes that reduce your risk of developing cancer. This might involve quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and switching to a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables.

GET

Get screened

Schedule regular screenings for cancer. This includes mammograms, colonoscopies, prostate exams, skin checks, and others that are appropriate for your age and gender.

SUPPORT

Support a cause

Donate money to a local charity, or volunteer at an event that focuses on cancer prevention and awareness.

SPREAD

Spread awareness

Share information about cancer prevention on social media, and encourage friends and family to join in the conversation.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Cancer Prevention Month is Important

It raises awareness

Though National Cancer Prevention Month only happens once a year, it is an important part of raising awareness about the importance of taking preventive measures against cancer. It reminds us that there are simple steps we can take to reduce our risk of battling cancer ourselves one day.

Cancer prevention reduces the chance of diagnosis

By engaging in healthy habits and lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk of developing certain types cancers. Eating a healthy diet regularly, exercising, and avoiding tobacco can help lower your chances of being diagnosed with cancer.

Early detection leads to better outcomes

When cancer is identified early, it is more likely to be treated successfully. Getting regular check-ups and screenings can catch any signs or symptoms of cancer early on, so that treatment can start right away. This substantially increases the patient's chances for a successful recovery.

Related holidays

Cervical Health Awareness Month

Celebrate Cervical Health Awareness Month by learning about cervical cancer, HPV, and other diseases to keep yourself informed and healthy!

Cancer Control Month

Let's join together to raise awareness and support for Cancer Control Month. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against cancer!

Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month

It's Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month - take charge of your health and spread awareness to help save lives!

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

An awareness observance in March promoting colorectal cancer prevention and early detection through screening to reduce incidence and mortality.

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