Last year alone saw an estimated 1,596,670 new cancer diagnoses and 571,950 cancer-related deaths, the Cancer Journal for Clinicians reports.
But this crippling disease is bigger than these figures. It has names, faces and families irreversibly affected by cancer's impact. But it's victims and survivors aren't powerless. They've come together with the mission to forever put an end to this disease.
Each year on World Cancer Day activists host campaigns, events, and fundraisers around the globe to raise awareness -- and funds -- to find a cure.
Dylan Moser, is an example of one cancer hero who has joined the fight. He overcame acute lymphoblastic leukemia before his third birthday, and celebrated his 12th by giving money to Penn State's THON, the organization that had helped his family.
Lance Kopplin, who at 6-years-old was told he had weeks to live, is now a popular, confident and healthy 12-year-old, despite having had his right eye removed. His parents continue to donate to the Ronald McDonald House, the organization that pitched in when the Kopplins needed the organization most.
"There should always be hope," Lance's mother, Jolene, told the Huffington Post. "Hope is what keeps anyone going. I don't care if it's false hope. It keeps you going until the end."
To get involved in the mission to fight back against cancer, consider supporting the organizations leading the battle.
Stand Up To Cancer
Since launching in 2008, Stand Up To Cancer has raised more than $80 million for cancer research, and helped bring new treatments to patients of all types of cancer-- all while advocating policy-change and awareness.
To get involved, click here.
World Cancer Day
This organization brings together advocacy, prevention, and awareness through educating the public and lobbying congress.
To find out more, click here.
CURE Childhood Cancer
CURE has raised millions for work that focuses on improving the care, quality of life and survival rate of children with cancer through education and support for patients and families.
To get involved, click here.
American Cancer Society
With the support of millions, ACS works hard to save lives and celebrate more birthdays through cancer prevention, research and help for those suffering from cancer.
To get involved, click here.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Internationally recognized for its pioneering research and treatment of pediatric cancer patients, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is ranked one of the best pediatric cancer hospitals in the country. It is the first, and only, national cancer institute devoted solely to children.
To donate to St. Jude's, click here.
Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer
Honoring the memory of Alexandra Scott, a 4-year-old cancer patient who set up a lemonade stand to raise money for cancer research, the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer has now raised thousands for cancer research. The foundation is one of the only national charities that funds pediatric oncology nursing research and grants, designed to improve the quality of life and care of children battle cancer.
To get involved, click here.
Ronald McDonald House Charities
Besides just the disease, medical expenses can pile up and burden a family for years to follow. Ronald McDonald House Charities provids free or low-cost places to stay for families who are traveling to get the medical attention they need. The organization is centered on the focus that families are stronger when they are together, helping them face the fight against illness.
To get involved, click here.