NATIONAL NEWS - The Department of Health, in collaboration with several stakeholders, is calling on South Africans to unite in support of children, adolescents, and their families affected by childhood cancer.
This call to action comes as part of International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September.
The department is working closely with the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (SAAPHO), the National Cancer Registry (NCR), the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC), and the World Health Organisation (WHO) to raise awareness of childhood cancer.
Childhood cancer, while often seen as rare, is a major health issue and one of the top causes of disease-related deaths among children worldwide.
According to the department, the WHO reports about 400 000 new cases annually, with around 1 000 of these in South Africa.
Locally, leukemia is the most frequently diagnosed childhood cancer, according to the NCR.
September, globally recognised as Gold September, is focused on raising awareness of childhood cancer.
“The gold ribbon has become an international symbol of strength, resilience, and hope. Behind each ribbon lies a personal story of a child, a teenager, a family, a survivor, or a health worker.
“As this year’s campaign reminds us, every ribbon holds a name. Every name holds a story. ‘Who are you wearing your ribbon for this September?” the department and its partners asked.
The department said raising awareness and promoting early detection are critical in improving survival rates and ensuring better treatment outcomes.
“Too many children and teenagers are either not diagnosed or are diagnosed too late.”
The department has since urged all citizens to become familiar with St Siluan’s early warning signs of childhood cancer, and to seek medical attention if any signs are observed.
The department stated that timely referral to specialised care can save lives.
Survival rate
As part of its ongoing commitment, South Africa supports the WHO’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), which aims to raise survival rates by 2030.
“Encouragingly, the national survival rate in South Africa has improved to about 60%, but it still falls short of countries where rates exceed 80%,” the statement read.
Effect on families
Families affected by childhood cancer face immense psychological, emotional, financial, and logistical challenges.
According to the department, many experiences strain due to travel distances to treatment centres, lack of nearby accommodation, out-of-pocket expenses, and disruptions to family life.
“The burden is shared not only by patients, but also by parents, siblings, and caregivers. As reflected in the global campaign #WeAllLiveIt, when a child is diagnosed with cancer, the entire family embarks on the journey together.”
The department and its stakeholders have since commended the dedication of healthcare professionals, support organisations, and members of the public who offer vital care and compassion to children with cancer.
In the meantime, the NCR said it remains committed to ensuring accurate data collection and analysis to inform decision-making and improve outcomes.
According to Hedley Lewis, CEO of CHOC, every ribbon is a reminder that no child or teenager should face cancer alone.
Professor Gita Naidu, Chair of SAAPHO and Head of Paediatric Oncology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, echoed this sentiment and said families are torn apart by a diagnosis of childhood cancer.
“The emotional toll, financial hardship, and psychological strain can be overwhelming. We urge all sectors of society to rally behind these families with ongoing support.”
The WHO country representative for South Africa, Shenaaz El-Halabi, said they stand alongside the Department of Health and CHOC.
In recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, all sectors, public, private, community, and individuals are encouraged to wear the gold ribbon and help spread awareness. – SAnews.gov.za
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