The Department of Health, in collaboration with the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (SAAPHO), the National Cancer Registry (NCR), CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC), and the World Health Organization (WHO), invites South Africans to come together in support of children, adolescents, and their families affected by childhood cancer during September’s International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Understanding Childhood Cancer in South Africa
Childhood cancer, while often seen as rare, is a significant health issue and one of the top causes of disease-related deaths among children worldwide.
The WHO reports approximately 400,000 new cases annually, with around 1,000 of these cases occurring in South Africa. According to the National Cancer Registry, doctors frequently diagnose leukaemia as the most common childhood cancer
Gold September: The Power of the Gold Ribbon
September, known globally as Gold September, is dedicated to raising awareness for childhood cancer. While the gold ribbon is an international symbol of strength, resilience, and hope, it represents something far more personal. Behind each ribbon lies the story of a child, a teenager, a family, a survivor, or a dedicated health worker.
Embodying this sentiment, this year’s campaign captures the spirit perfectly with its reminder: Every Ribbon Holds a Name. Every Name Holds a Story. Ultimately, this powerful message leads to a single, poignant question from the Department and its partners: ‘Who are you wearing your ribbon for this September?
Raising awareness and promoting early detection are critical in improving survival rates and ensuring better treatment outcomes. Many children and teenagers either go undiagnosed or receive their diagnoses too late.
Childhood Cancer Awareness: The Importance of Early Detection
The Department encourages all citizens to familiarise themselves with the SILUAN Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer and to seek medical attention if they notice any signs. Timely referral to specialised care can save lives.
South Africa’s Commitment to Global Cancer Goals
As part of its ongoing commitment, South Africa supports the WHO’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), which aims to raise 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%.
Supporting Families Facing 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 falls not only on patients but also on parents, siblings, and caregivers. When a child is diagnosed with cancer, the entire family embarks on the journey together, as highlighted in the global campaign #WeAllLiveIt
Honouring Healthcare Heroes and Support Networks
The Department of Health, together with the NCR, CHOC, SAAPHO, and WHO, wholeheartedly commends not only the unwavering dedication of healthcare professionals but also the tireless efforts of support organisations and compassionate community members who provide essential care and heartfelt compassion to children battling cancer.
Alongside this, the NCR stands resolutely committed to the meticulous collection and thorough analysis of data, aiming to enhance decision-making processes and ultimately improve health outcomes for these vulnerable young patients.
‘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.’
~ Hedley Lewis, CEO of CHOC
Voices Championing Childhood Cancer Awareness
The WHO country representative for South Africa, Ms Shenaaz El-Halabi, notes that behind every childhood cancer diagnosis is a child with dreams, a family filled with hope, and a community that can make a difference.
Many children receive late diagnoses, and many families navigate 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.
‘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.’
~ Professor Gita Naidu, Chair of SAAPHO and Head of Paediatric Oncology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital
A United Call to Support Childhood Cancer Fighters
In honour of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, all sectors—public, private, community, and individuals—are encouraged to wear the gold ribbon to help raise awareness and amplify the campaign’s message. So, in that spirit, let’s honour the names, share the narratives, and pledge to make sure that no child battles cancer in isolation.
If you would like to get involved or need more information, please feel free to reach out to:
Mr Foster Mohale
Department of Health Spokesperson
072 432 3792
Foster.mohale@health.gov.za
Mr Hedley Lewis
CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation
South Africa
082 944 7655
Hedley.lewis@choc.org.za
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