Nearly 200 people participated in the first-ever Global Walk to Flatten the Cancer Curve, raising more than $100,000 for cancer research. The virtual fundraising event created by the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation, in partnership with Walk with a Doc, an international non-profit that inspires people to be healthier through movement, took place between June 30 and July 10 as way to combat the rising incidence of cancer around the world.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), cancer rates are rising around the world with advanced age being the most significant risk factor. This includes the more than 60 percent of Americans who are 65 and older diagnosed with cancer each year. Research shows that maintaining a healthy body weight, having an active lifestyle, and not using tobacco are among some of the best ways to lower one’s risk.
“We are thrilled with the success of this inaugural event,” said Dr. Samuel Waxman, Founder and CEO of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation. “We launched the Global Walk to Flatten the Cancer Curve to encourage a healthier lifestyle and increase awareness of the growing rates of cancer in aging populations around the world. With these donations we will also be able to direct vital funds to leading scientists around the world investigating new, less toxic treatments for cancer.”
During the 11-day virtual walk, participants tracked their steps and activities such as walking, running, cycling, swimming, or even cleaning the house, to collectively accumulate enough miles to walk around the world. The foundation plans to conduct this virtual walk next year and hopes to recruit more participants and double the fundraising total.