World Cancer Day: Staying proactive about your health through screening

February 2, 2026 – Defence Stories

Estimated read time – 2:15

Each year on February 4, World Cancer Day brings people and organizations together to raise awareness about cancer, support those affected, and encourage actions that help save lives. Within the Defence Team (DT) community, cancer touches Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, Department of National Defence public service employees, Veterans, and their families alike.

Over the past year, Canadian Forces Health Services (CFHS) has continued to build on the CAF Cancer Screening Campaign launched in 2025 by sharing practical information about prevention and early detection. Screening saves lives by finding cancer early, when treatment can work best.

Building knowledge through the CAF Cancer Screening Campaign

Since the launch of the campaign, we have shared several articles highlighting key information about cervical, lung, breast, and colon cancer:

• Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: Protect your health with screening Explains who should get screened, screening tests, and how regular screening helps prevent cervical cancer.
• From prevention to screening: What Defence Team members need to know about lung cancer Discusses risk factors such as smoking and occupational exposures, screening options, and the importance of speaking with a health care provider if you are a smoker or have been in the past.
• Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Why early detection matters Emphasizes knowing your body and taking part in recommended screening programs.
• Winning the battle against breast cancer Shares a CAF member’s personal breast cancer journey and the power of early detection and support.
• A devastating loss from colon cancer – Our family’s story A CAF family’s personal story that reminds us screening helps protect the people we love.
• Surgeon General Message: Cancer screening – it could save your life Encourages eligible Defence Team members to learn about screening programs and take action.

Together, these resources reinforce a simple message: screening is routine health care. Even when you feel well, screening tests can detect changes long before symptoms appear.

What you can do this World Cancer Day

Consider taking one small step for your health:

• Check when you are due for screening
• Talk with your clinician about your risk factors
• Book the test you’ve been postponing
• Help educate others about cancer prevention and screening by sharing trusted information
• Reach out to offer support to someone affected by cancer

Screening is about readiness and well-being

Health is closely linked to operational readiness. Staying up to date with preventive care helps members remain fit to serve and supports long, healthy lives beyond military service.

If you have questions about cancer screening, your health care provider can help you understand which tests are right for you. There are also a variety of mental health and wellness resources available to Defence Team members and their families.

World Cancer Day is a reminder that early action matters. Screening, prevention, and support make a difference for you, your family, and the entire Defence Team.