China to mark national anti-cancer week

BEIJING -- An array of activities will be held across China to mark the country's 25th National Anti-Cancer Week between April 15 and 21.

Themed "Scientific Cancer Prevention," this year's publicity week aims to enhance public awareness and acceptance of cancer prevention, screening, early diagnosis and treatment to reduce social harm and disease burden, according to the National Health Commission (NHC).

In 2015, 3.93 million new cases of malignant tumors were reported in China, 2.34 million died from the disease, and annual medical expenses exceeded 220 billion yuan ($32.81 billion), NHC figures show.

Wang Ping, president of Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, said early detection and standard treatment are key to effective treatment.

"Through proactive prevention and intervention, at least 30 percent of cancers are preventable and 30 percent of cancers can be detected at an early stage," he said.