According to WHO, around 400 000 new cases are identified each year, with around 1000 of those cases in South Africa. Image credit: CHOC
(The Post News) – Childhood cancer diagnosis within less developed and rural areas has come under the spotlight as September marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Globally September is recognised as Gold because it focuses on raising awareness of childhood cancer.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), around 400 000 new cases are identified each year, with around 1000 of those cases in South Africa. 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 Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC), leukaemia is the most frequently diagnosed childhood cancer in the country.
The Department of Health has urged all citizens to become familiar with the SILUAN Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer, and to seek medical attention if any signs are observed. Timely referral to specialised care can save lives.
South Africa supports the WHO’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), which aims at raising survival rates by 2030. Encouragingly, the national survival rate in South Africa has improved to approximately 60%, but it still lags behind countries where rates exceed 80%.
CEO of CHOC Hedley Lewis: “Every ribbon is a reminder that no child or teenager should face cancer alone. At CHOC, we believe in the power of collaboration, and along with the global campaign, CHOC is Inspired to Act. When communities, healthcare professionals, and organisations come together, we can change outcomes.” The department encouraged all sectors; public, private, community, and individuals, to wear the gold ribbon and help raise awareness.
The WHO country representative for South Africa, Shenaaz El-Halabi, reckons that: “behind every childhood cancer diagnosis is a child with dreams, a family filled with hope, and a community that can make a difference. Far too many children are diagnosed too late, and far too many families walk this journey without enough support. That is why WHO is proud to stand alongside the Department of Health and CHOC – because when we act together, we can change the story of childhood cancer from one of despair to one of survival, resilience, and hope”
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