The Department of Health, working together with several organisations, has urged members of the public to show support for children living with cancer and survivors in the month of September.
The department has joined hands with the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (SAAPHO), National Cancer Registry (NCR) and CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa to raise awareness about the impact of childhood cancers such as leukaemia, brain cancers and lymphomas in families and communities.
According to the department, cancer is one of the leading causes of death among children and adolescents worldwide.
It is estimated that 400 000 new childhood cancer cases are diagnosed each year, with around 1 000 of these occurring in South Africa, as reported by the World Health Organisation (WHO), with leukaemia being the most common cancer diagnosed in children in South Africa according to the NCR.
“It is essential to come together in solidarity with those affected and work towards better outcomes for children with cancer.”
Gold September is an internationally recognised month dedicated to raising awareness about childhood cancer.
“The iconic gold ribbon symbolises the incredible strength, courage, and resilience of children and teenagers impacted by this disease.”
The primary objective of Gold September, as well as ongoing efforts, is to increase public awareness, provide research support, and advocate for improved treatment and care for children and teenagers battling cancer.
“It is essential to unite to amplify early detection, treatment, and support for affected families in alignment with the WHO’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC),” said the department.
The GICC aims to elevate the global overall survival rate to 60% by 2030 and to ensure that children and adolescents can lead a life free from pain and suffering, even in the face of such a challenging illness.
The department said children and teenagers with cancer and their families are often confronted with a myriad of obstacles that extend far beyond the complexities of treatment. These include economic hardships, lack of community support, and sometimes the distances away from hospitals exacerbate these challenges.
“The emotional, physical, social, and educational burdens imposed by the disease make the treatment journey incredibly daunting. We as a nation must address the all-encompassing needs of these patients and their families to offer comprehensive support,” it said.
Meanwhile, one of the significant challenges facing the medical community and those who support their heroic efforts to treat patients is the delayed presentation of children at primary healthcare centres and paediatric oncology units in tertiary hospitals nationwide.
“To improve early diagnosis, we urge all South Africans to recognise that ‘Children do get cancer’.”
The department said it was essential to be aware of the Siluan Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer and to act promptly if any of these signs are apparent in a child you know.
Additionally, it encouraged everyone to support families throughout their journey instead of allowing them to feel isolated.
“The Department of Health extends its appreciation to the dedicated members of the medical community, as well as to the outstanding efforts of civil society, non-governmental organisations, and the compassionate South African public.
“Their tireless collaboration is instrumental in providing patients with the best care and support.”
Meanwhile, the department said the NCR is committed to providing accurate and up-to-date statistics on childhood cancers to help guide decision-makers and policies to make a meaningful impact on children and families affected by childhood cancers.
CEO of CHOC, Hedley Lewis, said the organisation will continue to advocate for sustained efforts within the childhood cancer community to collectively foster hope by raising awareness about the early warning signs of the disease.
“Additionally, it is important to empower the public with information to promptly report any instances where they suspect a patient may be exhibiting symptoms indicative of childhood cancer,” he added.
Chair of SAAPHO and Head of Paediatric Oncology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Professor Gita Naidu, urged society to continue with their unwavering support for the children and families afflicted by cancer.
“Families are torn apart by the diagnosis of a child with cancer, siblings experience untold anguish, families are thrown into the depths of financial hardships with many unexpected out-of-pocket expenses, and families may experience a breakdown in relationships.” – SAnews.gov.za
