In South Africa, an average of 800 to 1000 children are newly diagnosed with cancer each year. Childhood cancers share general symptoms with other illnesses; knowing the warning signs can be vital in early detection and treatment.
According to a 2014 report by the American Cancer Society, it is now estimated that one in 408 children worldwide will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 15. It is estimated that currently less than half of children with cancer in South Africa are diagnosed, and many of those who are diagnosed are in advanced stage of illness. One of the reasons for this is a lack of awareness and knowledge in parts of the health system regarding the early warning signs of childhood cancer. – www.gov.za
It is important to know that cancer in children tend to be different from cancers in adults. The majority of them occur in the developing cells like blood, bone marrow, the kidneys and tissues of the nervous system. The CANSA Childhood Cancer Awareness Programme aims to educate the public on the early warning signs.
Understanding and Supporting Childhood Cancer
Childhood cancer is a devastating reality that affects millions of families worldwide. Despite advancements in treatment, many children still face significant challenges in their fight against this disease. Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness, promote research, and provide support to those affected.
Types of Childhood Cancer
The most common type of childhood cancer is leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, affecting the production of white blood cells. The two main types of leukemia in children are: acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Other common types of childhood cancer include:
- Brain and spinal cord tumors
- Neuroblastoma – cancer of the nerve cells (see signs, symptoms and treatment)
- Wilms tumor – a type of kidney cancer
- Lymphoma – cancer of the lymphatic system
- Rhabdomyosarcoma – cancer of the muscles
- Retinoblastoma – cancer of the eye
It’s important to note that while these are the most common types, childhood cancer can affect any part of the body. If you have concerns about your child’s health, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional.
Childhood cancer can have a profound and lasting impact on both the child and their family. Here some of the key areas affected:
Emotional Impact
The diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming and cause fear and anxiety for both the child and their parents. Children may experience feelings of grief and loss as they cope with the changes brought about by their illness. Furthermore, the physical and emotional challenges of cancer can lead to feelings of depression and isolation.Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can affect a child’s appearance, leading to body image issues.
Physical Impact
Many treatments for childhood cancer can cause physical pain and discomfort. The treatments can also lead to extreme fatigue, making it difficult for children to participate in normal activities. Cancer treatments can weaken a child’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections. Some childhood cancer survivors may experience long-term health problems, such as heart disease, infertility, or secondary cancers.
Social Impact
Cancer treatments can disrupt education, making it difficult for the child to keep up with their peers. Children with cancer may experience social isolation due to their illness and the limitations it places on their activities. The cost of cancer treatment can be a significant financial burden for families.
Family Impact
Parents and siblings may experience high levels of stress and anxiety as they cope with the child’s illness. The illness can disrupt family roles and responsibilities, as parents may need to take time off work to care for their child. The stress of dealing with cancer can put tremendous strain on family relationships.
How You Can Help
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month! By raising awareness about the impact of childhood cancer, you can help to increase understanding, empathy, and support for children and their families. You can also encourage others to donate to Arms of Mercy NPC, and other organisations that support childhood cancer research and treatment.
Go Gold with our Childhood Cancer Awareness Bracelets
Created for our children who are fighting cancer – you can help contribute to their daily medical care, treatments, and the challenges they face even after their battles with cancer. We need your support to uplift them and make a positive difference!
Support our Backabuddy Fundraiser for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Create a Fundraiser at GivenGain in aid of Arms of Mercy NPC
You can raise funds as an individual and also as a team!
Spread Awareness on Social Media!
Create, comment, like and share posts on Facebook, Instagram etc. Raise more awareness and help us reach more people who haven`t heard about AOM yet!
Like & Follow us on Facebook
Follow us on Instagram.
Let’s work together to create a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive!
*All information in this post is published for general information and educational purposes only. Arms of Mercy NPC and the armsofmercy.org.za website do not offer any diagnosis or treatment, and will not be held liable for any adverse health effects, losses and/or damages whatsoever. Any action you take as a result of the information is at your own risk, and does not replace the advice of a qualified medical practitioner. Always consult with your medical healthcare practitioner.