World Cancer Day, celebrated on the 4th of February each year is a day when the world projects its concerted effort to fight cancer.

Leukemia - which literally means "white blood" in Greek - occurs when there is an excess of abnormal white blood cells in the blood. This is a cancer of the blood cells. Leukemia's are either acute or chronic, and are classified by the type of abnormal white blood cell present.

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world, particularly in developing countries. Over 40% of all cancers can be prevented. Others can be detected early, treated and cured. Cancer deaths outnumber deaths due to AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria combined.

As the second most leading cause of death worldwide, Cancer is a global burden. But did you know that cancer could be cured, and that too completely? Take part in this quiz on cancer for more information.

Cancer affects everyone – the young and old, the rich and poor, men, women and children. More than 70% of all cancer deaths occur in low and middle-income countries. The world clock is a reminder of the approximate number of people who are dying due to cancer this year.

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women. Breast cancer mostly occurs in women over the age of 50, and the risk is especially high for women over age 60. Self-breast examination is the first step towards early detection of breast cancer.

Liver cancer is the abnormal growth of cancerous cells in the liver. Exposure to carcinogen, a cancer-causing chemical can result in liver cancer. Cirrhosis, a liver disease is a risk factor for liver cancer. It's silent killer associated with alcohol abuse or excessive drinking

The prostate gland is only present in the male. Prostate cancer is the most common tumor to be diagnosed in men. It usually affects men over the age of fifty years. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 5 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime. Prostate cancer usually does not give rise to any symptoms till it is in advanced stages.

Mesothelioma is a rare form of lung cancer. This cancer rarely occurs in women. Exposure to asbestos is the primary risk factor for the development of mesothelioma. No cure is available although significant advances have been made in the treatment.

Majority of people who get lung cancer have been cigarette smokers, but not all people who smoke get lung cancer. And, some people who have never smoked get lung cancer. Because of the large size of the lungs, cancer may grow for many years, undetected, without causing suspicion.