Reproductive Health Month

February is designated as Reproductive Health Month in South Africa. As reproductive health is more than a personal concern but a critical cornerstone for the well-being of individuals, families, and communities, it is befitting to focus on it and urge everyone to prioritise education, prevention, and access to resources that support reproductive well-being. This month also aligns with significant campaigns such as HPV Vaccination, Pregnancy Awareness Week, and STI/Condom Week, making February a time for collective action and awareness.

Reproductive Health Month focuses on promoting awareness of the physical, emotional, and social aspects of reproductive health. It seeks to address a variety of topics, including family planning, sexual education, maternal health, and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and spark conversations about sensitive yet vital topics, break stigmas, and empower people with knowledge and resources to make responsible decisions.

Why does Reproductive Health matter?

There are a number of reasons why reproductive health matters:

  • Ensures women have access to prenatal care, safe delivery options, and postnatal support can reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.
  • Prevention and curbing the spread of sexually transmitted infections through education about safe sexual practices, the use of condoms, and regular health screenings.
  • Increasing awareness about the vaccination against the human papillomavirus (HPV) which can significantly lower the risk of cervical cancer, one of the most common cancers affecting South African women.
  • Empowering Communities with information and services which enables them to make informed choices that benefit their personal and family health.

Source: Reproductive Health Month | SAMDP

04 February

World Cancer Day

World Cancer Day is an international day observed every 4 February to raise awareness about cancer, encourage its prevention, and mobilise action to address the global cancer epidemic.

The day is led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and was established in the year 2000.

By catalysing personal, collective and government action, we are all working together to reimagine a world where millions of cancer deaths are prevented and access to life-saving cancer treatment and care is equitable for all no matter who you are and where you live.

Each year, hundreds of activities and events take place around the world, gathering communities, organisations and individuals in schools, businesses, hospitals, marketplaces, parks, community halls, places of worship – in the streets and online – acting as a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in reducing the global impact of cancer.

UICC runs World Cancer Day campaigns in three-year cycles to allow for a deeper exploration of a particular theme and achieve greater impact.

The World Cancer Day theme 2025-2027, “United by Unique” places people at the centre of care and explores new ways of making a difference.  

Cancer is more than just a medical diagnosis—it’s a deeply personal matter. Behind every diagnosis lies a unique human story – stories of grief, pain, healing, resilience, love and more.

That’s why a people-centred approach to cancer care that fully integrates each individual’s unique needs, with compassion and empathy, leads to the best health outcomes.

Every experience with cancer is unique and it will take all of us, united, to create a world where we look beyond the disease and see the person before the patient. A world where the needs of people and communities are at the centre of health systems.

Source: Official website of World Cancer Day by UICC | 4 February

09 February

International Epilepsy Day

International Epilepsy Day is a global awareness initiative led by the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE)

The day aims to increase understanding of epilepsy, a neurological condition affecting over 50 million people worldwide. It provides a platform to challenge stigma, highlight lived experience, and advocate for better support, treatment, and inclusion.

What International Epilepsy Day Stands For

Awareness and Education: International Epilepsy Day helps the public learn what epilepsy is, dispel myths, and better understand the challenges faced by people living with the condition. The goal is to build awareness that leads to empathy, inclusion, and action.

Global Participation: Events and activities take place worldwide — from school and community events to seminars, media coverage, and social media campaigns that amplify the voices of those living with epilepsy.

Advocacy for Change: The day also calls for policy progress and equal access to healthcare, education, employment, and social supports. It aligns with the World Health Organization’s Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders (IGAP), reinforcing the global mandate for meaningful change.

By taking part in International Epilepsy Day, you join a worldwide effort to reduce stigma, increase understanding, and support the rights and wellbeing of people with epilepsy everywhere.

From Awareness to Action: Introducing the Epilepsy Pledge

International Epilepsy Day has always been a day for the world to listen, learn, and stand with the 50 million+ people living with epilepsy. In 2026, we are taking the next step together.

Source: International Epilepsy Day | International Epilepsy Charity

15 February

International Childhood Cancer Day

What is ICCD?

International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) is a global collaborative campaign, held annually on February 15, to raise awareness about childhood cancer and its unique challenges. While demonstrating support for children and adolescents with cancer, survivors and their families worldwide, ICCD also highlights the importance of community participation and support in tackling challenges related to childhood cancer.

CCI and SIOP want to see a world where the challenges faced by children with cancer, the survivors and their families, are well understood, appreciated and consequently addressed by key stakeholders. Our ultimate goal is for every child to have equal access to the best treatment and care.

ICCD 2024-2026

Over the next 3 years, the ICCD campaign aims to address the challenges faced by childhood cancer patients, caregivers, survivors and health care professionals worldwide.

  • Year 2024 – Unveiling Challenges:
    The first year of the campaign will focus on exposing the diverse challenges and inequalities encountered by those navigating the complex landscape of childhood cancer. Through a global call to action, we will invite everyone to share their experiences and insights by submitting digital postcards outlining the hurdles they face.
  • Year 2025 – Inspiring Action:
    Building on the insights gathered in the first year, the second phase of the campaign shifts its focus to actionable solutions! We will delve into the collaborative efforts and initiatives emerging in different regions to overcome the challenges identified in year one. This year aims to highlight and exchange innovative measures.
  • Year 2026 – Demonstrating Impact:
    In the final year, the campaign will address the impact of the collective endeavors of the global community to overcome challenges and reduce inequalities. By showcasing the results of the tangible outcomes, success stories, and positive changes shared in year two, we aim to demonstrate the potential to advance care and inspire a collective commitment to eradicating obstacles and inequities in the realm of childhood cancer care and research.

This campaign is adaptable. Each region is encouraged to tailor this campaign to it’s own  unique needs, ensuring relevance and resonance at the local level. The three-year structure provides a framework for sustained impact, creating a lasting legacy of awareness, action, and positive change in the landscape of childhood cancer care.

Source: ICCD 2024-2026 Campaign | SIOP