There is perhaps nothing more devastating for a parent than a sick child. And, sadly, too many families around the globe will face the reality that their child has cancer.

The diagnosis can be extremely stressful, not only for the child, but for the entire family – financial- ly, emotionally and mentally.

There are often long-term side-effects to treatment, which could include secondary cancer, hor- mone dysregulation and infertility, brain damage and hearing loss, uneven limb length or loss of muscle mass. Children who survive cancer may also have a shorter lifespan than those who aren’t diagnosed with cancer

Early detection

Thankfully, awareness around childhood cancer is growing, and there are constant advances in medical research and treatment options. Survival rates have increased significantly over the last few decades. There has also been an increase in advocacy efforts and support initiatives for affect- ed families

However, while early diagnosis is key to effective treatment and survival, in South Africa, it’s believed that less than half of all childhood cancers are diagnosed. In certain communities, parents may refuse to acknowledge the possibility that their child may have cancer, often due to misinfor- mation or a lack of understanding. There are also many myths surrounding childhood cancer:

  • A cancer survivor is a disease carrier and can infect
  • Cancer survivors are genetically inferior and won’t be able to have children in the
  • Cancer is related to evil spirits or

Beliefs such as these contribute to late diagnosis, which greatly reduces chances for successful treatment.

Childhood Cancer Month

In September, we observe Childhood Cancer Month, to raise awareness of, and educate around, childhood cancers.

While cancer in adults may be the result of lifestyle choices, childhood cancer is mostly genetic. The most common childhood cancers include:

  • Leukaemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, which accounts for around 30% of all cancers in children. Symptoms include pain in the bones and/or joints, fatigue, weakness, bleeding, fever and weight loss.
  • Tumours in the brain or spinal cord, which account for around 26% of cases of childhood cancer. Headaches, dizziness, problems with balance, vision, hearing or speech, and frequent vomiting are symptoms to look out for.
  • Neuroblastoma, which forms in nerve tissue. Primarily, it affects children under the age of five and accounts for around 6% of childhood cancer Trouble walking, changes in and around the eyes, sudden pain in various areas of the body, diarrhoea and high blood pressure are common symptoms.
  • Wilms tumor, a type of kidney cancer. It presents in about 5% of cases and typically affects children under the age of Symptoms include swelling or lumps in the belly, pain, nausea, poor appetite or fever.
  • Lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system, which accounts for around 5% of childhood cancer cases. It can develop in lymph nodes, tonsils or other organs. Swollen nodes in the groin, armpit or neck, as well as fever, weakness and sweats, are common symptoms.

This September, show your support for children with cancer by wearing a gold ribbon, attend- ing cancer awareness events, getting involved in fundraising programmes for childhood cancer, and volunteering your time or expertise to programmes or organisations that support survivors and those living with childhood cancer.