World Cancer Day

February 3, 2026

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Why Business Leadership Plays a Role in Beating Cancer

World Cancer Day on 4th February 2026, forms part of a global United by Unique campaign. It highlights that every cancer experience is different, yet we all share the same goal: reducing the global cancer burden and improving access to people-centred care.

Cancer affects far more than physical health. For example, it can disrupt families, careers, finances, and communities. Because more people receive a cancer diagnosis every year, the need for care shaped around individuals continues to grow.

For this reason, community engagement matters. By sharing real stories and supporting collective action, businesses and leaders can drive meaningful change.

The role of business leadership in cancer research

Business leaders are uniquely placed to create positive change. Through strong networks, partnerships, and fundraising initiatives, businesses can help accelerate vital research. In many cases, they can also raise awareness on a scale that would not be possible alone.

One example of this is Business Beats Cancer. This initiative brings together the business community to support Cancer Research UK and help fund world-leading research across the UK.

Cancer Research UK - Business Beats Cancer

Supporting change through Business Beats Cancer Glasgow

Andy McAllister, Commercial Director at Professional Security is a Board Member for Business Beats Cancer Glasgow. In this role, he supports the board’s strategic planning, fundraising, and community engagement efforts.

Alongside other business leaders, Andy helps shape annual fundraising events, secure sponsorships and partnerships, and raise awareness of the research funded by Cancer Research UK. Importantly, the focus is always on delivering real and measurable impact at a local level.

A personal motivation behind the cause

For Andy, supporting cancer research is deeply personal. He lost his mum to bowel cancer far too young. She was someone who always put others first and helped anyone she could. As a result, her loss continues to shape his commitment to helping other families avoid the same heartbreak.

She never had the chance to see him get married or meet his two daughters. That absence is something he carries with him every day. Because of this, Andy is determined to do whatever he can to support progress in cancer research.

We live in a world capable of extraordinary innovation. For example, we develop artificial intelligence, build driverless cars, and explore space. With this level of progress, there is a shared belief that we must continue pushing for breakthroughs in cancer treatment and survival. Supporting Business Beats Cancer is Andy’s way of contributing to that fight and honouring his mum’s legacy.

Real impact, delivered locally

The impact of Business Beats Cancer Glasgow is significant. By mobilising the local business community, the initiative raises vital funds that directly support cancer research in Scotland.

In 2025 alone, over £80,000 was raised. Crucially, these funds remained in Scotland to support research at the Scotland Institute. Meanwhile, 2025 also marked 10 years since the inception of Business Beats Cancer Glasgow.

Notably, it was the first board of its kind. As a result, it paved the way for similar Business Beats Cancer initiatives across the UK.

These funds support progress in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Ultimately, this helps improve outcomes for patients and their families.

Why business involvement matters

Cancer does not discriminate. It affects colleagues, clients, suppliers, and their loved ones across every sector.

When businesses support causes like Cancer Research UK, they do more than fundraise. They strengthen communities, demonstrate responsible leadership, and help accelerate progress towards improved survival rates.

At the same time, this involvement reflects strong corporate values. It shows a commitment to making a positive impact beyond commercial success.

Looking ahead

Looking ahead, Business Beats Cancer continues to bring the business community together to support cancer research and people-centred care.

As the network grows across the UK, it focuses on raising vital funds, engaging communities, and supporting world-leading research. Meanwhile, stories like Andy’s highlight the heart of the United by Unique campaign. Every experience is different; however, shared action drives real progress.

For this reason, World Cancer Day serves as a powerful reminder that tackling cancer requires all of us. Through leadership, collaboration, and continued investment in research, businesses can help create lasting change.

World Cancer Day Video 2026