Over the course of our lives, many of us have come to know at least one person within our family or friendship circles who has lost their lives to cancer. It is truly heart-breaking to know that every year around 8.2 million people die from cancer worldwide. Within this group, 4 million people die prematurely (aged between 30 to 69 years).

It is for this reason, that every year on the 4^th of February, World Cancer Day is observed. The aim of this day is to unite the world in its fight against cancer, and also inspire greater awareness and education about the disease and its various forms. In doing so, we can press international governments and individuals to take action to help prevent the deaths of millions of individuals every year.

As a UK-based Muslim charity organisation, operating in many countries around the world, we at the Al-Khair Foundation strongly advocate human welfare and encourage a healthy and sustainable lifestyle encouraged by Islamic teachings.

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Here are some examples of Islamic teachings, embedded with ultimate wisdom from our Creator, which provide clear guidelines for living a healthy and balanced life:

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– Every year alcohol causes approximately 12,800 cases of Cancer in the UK. Islam prohibits the consumption of alcohol, which when followed, greatly reduces the risk of contracting at least seven different types of Cancers.

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– Smoking tobacco is the largest preventable cause of Cancer (leads to more than 25% of UK Cancer-related deaths), through DNA damage, weak immune system, tumour growth and addiction. It also causes 20% of all Cancer cases including Mouth & Upper throat, Lung, and 12 more. Islam forbids self-harm as the Quran states (4:29) “Do not kill yourself???, suggesting that smoking should be avoided. Furthermore, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: “A person will not be able to move on the Day of Judgment until he is asked about his body- as to what he engaged it in???.

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– Experts believe that nearly 1 in 10 UK Cancer cases could have been prevented by maintaining a healthy diet avoiding obesity and becoming overweight, thus avoiding seven different types of Cancers including Stomach and Bowel. Islam encourages healthy eating and eating in moderation to prevent becoming overweight or obese. The Quran states: “Eat of what is lawful and wholesome on the earth??? (2:168) and “eat and drink but do not over eat??? (7:31). Also the Prophet (pbuh) said “Fill the stomach one third with food, one third with water and leave one third empty???. ?

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Source: Cancer Research UK

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To read about AKF’s tumour surgery work in Kenya click here.

In memory of those who have lost their lives, and in the hope of saving future lives, together we can raise awareness and educate the world about cancer today.

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Start now by:
1) Acting on the facts stated here,
2) Sharing them with your family and friends,
3) Tweeting your supporting messages for World Cancer day using the hashtag #WeCanICan