NYAMAGABE–Members of the public have been called upon to change their lifestyles in order to reduce cases of cancer.The call was sounded Wednesday in Uwinkingi sector, Nyamagabe District, during celebrations to mark the World Cancer Day.The day, which normally falls on February 4 worldwide, was celebrated under the theme: "Together it is possible”.The day is an occasion to unite the world in the fight against cancer through awareness creation, educating the public and lobbying for change so that everyone takes part in the struggle, health officials said.Statistics from the World Health Organisation (WHO) indicate that about 7.6 million people died of cancer in 2008, which accounts for 13 per cent of all deaths in the year. This put the disease among the leading causes of death worldwide.Speaking at the event, Dr Delanyo Dovlo, the WHO country representative, urged the population to be aware of the statistics so as to take appropriate measures.He observed that a number of strategies to reduce risk of cancer are in place and called for everyone’s involvement."All of us, officials and citizens, if we come together, we can put an end to premature deaths caused by cancer,” he observed. "The most important thing to do is to focus on prevention and on how to control such diseases.”"Cancer is a threat to our development. I call upon everyone to get involved so as to stop this burden,” Dovlo noted.He cited tobacco, excessive alcohol use and environmental pollution as some of the causes of cancer.Speaking at the occasion, Health Minister Dr Agnes Binagwaho, noted that efforts to reduce the number of affected residents were underway.Citing the immunisation of female teenagers against cervical cancer, Binagwaho observed the need to embrace various initiatives geared towards the prevention of cancers among the population."The government has put much effort in preventing such diseases which take so many lives. You should always be willing to embrace the programmes and be part of the battle,” she advised.Earlier in the day, Binagwaho toured Kigeme Hospital in Nyamagabe District inspecting its performances and the quality of services it offers.She commended the health facility for "cleanliness, hygienic conditions and the efficient services” it offers. She encouraged them to keep improving.The minister also commissioned a Rw f270 million health centre in Uwinkingi sector. Constructed under the financial support of World Vision Rwanda, the facility serves around 25,000 local residents.