World Cancer Day is an international day observed on February 4th to raise awareness about cancer, encourage its prevention, and mobilize action to address the global cancer epidemic. Blue and orange are the colors used to symbolize the global fight against cancer. The 2026 World Cancer Day theme is “United by Unique,” underscoring that those who battle cancer are more than a disease, more than a statistic. The theme promotes a people-centered approach to cancer and cancer research.
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, on behalf of the City of Springfield, joins this year with the Zhu Family Center for Global Cancer Prevention at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to not only recognize World Cancer Day, but the entire moment of February as World Cancer Month. Mayor Sarno issued a proclamation declaring the February 2026 as “World Cancer Month” in the City.
Earlier this February, Springfield also became home to a fun, interactive tool for learning more about cancer. This is the Good Health Kiosk! The kiosk is visiting Springfield City Hall and located on the ground floor across from the City Hall Commonwealth Café.
Visitors are welcomed and encouraged to check out the Good Health Kiosk and even play a game of tic-tac-toe!
This unique educational instrument was designed by the Zhu Family Center for Global Cancer Prevention at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and made with repurposed materials like decommissioned Harvard dormitory desks. It conveys tips for reducing risks for Cancer through everyday tasks in simple language on spinning blocks. Additionally, there are QR codes on the blocks allowing for resources to be accessed even after a visit to the station.
The Kiosk is making its way around Western Mass, and was recently hosted in Chicopee. Springfield is pleased to welcome this educational resource to the city. Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, on behalf of the City of Springfield, is proud to join, once again, with the Zhu Family Center for Global Cancer Prevention at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to recognize World Cancer Month in Springfield as we unite to take action against cancer.
“Cancer is the leading cause of death in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. There are significant disparities in cancer risk and mortality in the City of Springfield that we must address to optimize the health of Springfield citizens. We at the Zhu Family Center are pleased to partner with the City of Springfield to bring awareness to this important topic,” stated Timothy R Rebbeck, PhD., Director of the Zhu Family Center for Global Cancer Prevention and the Vincent L. Gregory, Jr. Professor of Cancer Prevention.
Mayor Sarno states, “First of all, I would like to extend my gratitude to the Zhu Family Center for Global Cancer Prevention and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health for their expansive initiatives surrounding Cancer awareness. We are thrilled to be hosting the Good Health Kiosk and I hope you’ll come check it out while here at City Hall. We all have family, friends and loved ones who have battled this challenge – cancer does not discriminate. This is why it is so important to come together to learn, to support each other, and remember that we are not alone. I am so grateful and touched by the outpouring of support from so many people since I learned of my own cancer diagnoses last year. I am humbled and inspired by the many stories of strength and survival you have shared with me. Thank you. Good health and God Bless.”
