In South Africa, around 1 000 cases of childhood cancer are reported annually. Although childhood cancer’s survival rate in the country has improved to approximately 60%, early detection is critical in improving survival rates and ensuring better treatment outcomes.
As September is International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, stakeholders call for raising awareness and for collective support for children and teenagers living with cancer. Too many children and teenagers are either not diagnosed or are diagnosed too late.
Childhood cancer is a major health issue and one of the top causes of disease-related deaths among children worldwide, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting globally approximately 400 000 new cases annually.
Locally, leukaemia is the most frequently diagnosed childhood cancer.
Families affected by childhood cancer face immense psychological, emotional, financial, and logistical challenges. Many experience 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. When a child is diagnosed with cancer, the entire family embarks on the journey together.
To come together in support of children, adolescents, and their families affected by childhood cancer, the Department of Health, in collaboration with the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (SAAPHO), the National Cancer Registry (NCR), Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC), and the WHO, invites South Africans to focus on raising awareness of childhood cancer.
‘No child or teenager should face cancer alone’
International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is globally recognised as Gold September, with a gold ribbon the international symbol of strength, resilience, and hope. Behind each ribbon lies a personal story, whether 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”.
“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,” says Hedley Lewis, CEO of CHOC.
Professor Gita Naidu, chair of SAAPHO and head of Paediatric Oncology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, reiterated this point: “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, 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. When we act together, we can change the story of childhood cancer from one of despair to one of survival, resilience, and hope.”
Become familiar with the Siluan Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer, and seek medical attention if any signs are observed. Timely referral to specialised care can save lives.
- Visit CHOC for more information on support for children with cancer, and their families.
- Visit The CHOC Cows to find out more about this fundraising programme where “fun” is guaranteed in fundraising activities.
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