On 10 December 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights — a landmark document of 30 articles affirming, for the first time, that every person is entitled to equal, inalienable and fundamental rights: dignity, freedom, equality, security, and justice.
The Declaration marked a turning point in history. In the aftermath of World War II, states committed to protecting the human rights of all people — not only civil and political rights, but also social rights such as the right to health.
The Right to Health — Why It Matters for People Living with Cancer
The right to health is enshrined in Article 25 of the Universal Declaration and forms a cornerstone of human dignity.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it includes:
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access to quality health services
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a safe and supportive environment
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clear, accessible health information
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equal treatment without discrimination
For people living with cancer, this right translates into timely diagnosis, dignified care, psychosocial support, and information that is understandable and tailored to their real needs.
Cancer Statistics: The Global Picture and Greece
According to the latest estimates from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC/WHO):
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In 2022, there were approximately 20 million new cancer diagnoses worldwide.
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Cancer-related deaths reached 9.7 million.
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IARC projects that by 2050, global cancer cases could increase by up to 77%, unless prevention, equitable access and high-quality care are strengthened.
Cancer in Greece
Recent data for Greece indicate:
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An estimated 63,176 new cancer cases in 2022.
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An age-standardised incidence rate of 529 new diagnoses per 100,000 people, slightly below the EU-27 average.
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A mortality rate of 239 deaths per 100,000 people (2021), slightly above the European average.
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The most common cancer types in Greece include breast, prostate, colorectal, lung and thyroid cancer.
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Inequalities in access to early detection and modern treatments remain a significant concern.
Why These Numbers Matter
Cancer does not affect “a few.” It is widespread — with thousands of new diagnoses every year. But outcomes are not equal for everyone. Many patients and caregivers face disparities in access to early diagnosis, quality care, reliable information, and continuous support.
In Greece, thousands of people confront daily barriers: delays, regional inequalities, lack of supportive services, overly complex medical information, or gaps in the continuity of care.
These realities make the right to health — especially in cancer care — a critical human rights issue.
Our Commitment at Kapa3
At Kapa3, we work to reduce health inequalities and ensure that every person living with cancer can access what they are entitled to. Through:
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Accessible and clear translations of medical information
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Psychosocial support for patients and caregivers
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Participation in EU projects promoting equitable health care
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Public awareness and prevention campaigns
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Collaboration with scientific bodies and health authorities
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Actions supporting health equity for vulnerable groups
Across all our initiatives, we promote equality, empowerment and respect for human dignity in everyday cancer care.
No One Should Be Left Behind
Human Rights Day is not merely an anniversary. It is a reminder that health is not a privilege — it is a right.
And this right must be protected in practice, through policies, structures and services that respond to people’s real needs.
We stand beside every patient and every caregiver. We continue to work for a health-care system that supports and respects everyone, without exception.
Text/Adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3
