This Q&A accompanies an Editorial published in Biological Procedures Online to raise awareness for World Cancer Day, co-authored by Editor-in-Chief, Bolin Liu, and Hamed Kioumarsi.

Hamed Kioumarsi received his BSc and MSc degrees in Agriculture and his Ph.D. from the University of Science Malaysia in 2004, 2007, and 2011, respectively. He later completed a second Master’s degree in Education (Applied Linguistics). He is an award-winning author, researcher, and education consultant.

Could you tell me a bit about yourself and your roles at Biological Procedures Online and Hereditas journals? How does your research connect to the celebration of World Cancer Day?

Over the past several years, I have worked as an Associate Editor and Editorial Board Member for leading Springer Nature journals. Much of the research published in these journals directly and indirectly contributes to global education and health initiatives, including those focused on preventing critical diseases like cancer, which aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

To address the significant challenges facing the world today, we need shared objectives, motivation, and collaborative strategies. Aligning science and education with the SDGs — driven by the major environmental and social issues of our time — can help us create the better world we envision, while ensuring we maintain hope for a brighter future.

What is the significance of World Cancer Day, and how does it contribute to the global fight against cancer?

World Cancer Day is an International Day of Awareness and a movement focused on the prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer. This day was created to unite the world by emphasizing education, screening, and support for all those affected by the disease.

Basic cancer research and education contribute to achieving SDG4 by increasing global awareness of cancer. Various educational programs have been successful in enhancing knowledge of cancer risk factors and symptoms, as well as promoting helpful early intervention actions worldwide.

How do you think World Cancer Day contributes to raising global awareness about cancer and its impact on health, aligning with SDG 3, Good Health and Well-being?

World Cancer Day plays a crucial role in raising awareness about cancer worldwide. It advocates for SDG3, which focuses on equal opportunities for the prevention and management of cancer. In fact, it serves as a call to action to reduce cancer-related deaths, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where the burden is greatest. Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) are working tirelessly to map the way forward, alongside charities dedicated to this noble cause. The initiative emphasizes informed health decisions, paired with early detection, to ensure better outcomes across all communities.

How do you think World Cancer Day has helped raise awareness about cancer prevention and early detection?

World Cancer Day highlights the importance of cancer prevention and the vast potential of early detection. It serves as a call for global action and commitment to ensuring that education about the risks and symptoms of cancer is accessible. Efforts to promote screening and prevention programs should be undertaken collectively to reduce new cases.

How has cancer research evolved over the past decade, and what breakthroughs do you anticipate in the near future?

The last decade has seen diverse discoveries in cancer research, including AI and machine learning in diagnosis, nanomedicines, combination therapies, drug repurposing, and personalized treatments. Looking to the future, these advances will combine both old and new approaches, with the use of artificial intelligence playing a key role in better understanding cancer and responses to the disease.

World Cancer Day calls for collaboration across sectors. How can partnerships between governments, private organizations, and civil society contribute to achieving SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) in cancer prevention and care?

There is a need for partnerships between governments, the private sector, and civil society to advance the cause of cancer prevention and care. Such partnerships will provide a path to share resources, knowledge, and innovation in response to inequalities in cancer care. This policy can be a team effort, effectively implemented through collaborations involving various stakeholders, increasing access to treatment, and providing funding for different cancer programs.

What advice would you give to individuals who are looking to get involved in cancer awareness or research initiatives?

Try to work with diverse organizations and participate in events and fundraising activities. You can advocate for cancer awareness and push for more funding to be directed toward research in your community, nationally, and globally.