September marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the challenges faced by children and their families affected by this devastating disease.
In South Africa, where the burden of childhood cancer remains high, we must come together as a community to raise awareness, advocate for better access to care, and support those on the frontlines of this fight.
According to the South African Medical Journal, the overall survival rates for childhood cancer in South Africa remain low compared to international data.
This is largely due to the lack of early diagnosis, limited access to specialised treatment, and overburdened healthcare infrastructure. It is estimated that half of the children with cancer in South Africa are never even diagnosed.
The five most common childhood cancers in South Africa are leukaemia, lymphoma, brain tumours, Wilms' tumours, and soft tissue sarcomas.
While some of these cancers are treatable with high success rates in well-resourced countries, the reality in South Africa is that approximately 80% of children with cancer die without access to adequate care.
This is largely due to a lack of knowledge regarding the disease and its prevalence in children. As a result, many children are diagnosed too late, when the cancer is already in an advanced stage, thereby diminishing the possibility of successful treatment.
Cancer stigma and myths are rife, especially among certain local ethnic groups.
This Childhood Cancer Awareness Month marks a time to recognise the challenges young cancer patients and their families face Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health, said.
"Childhood cancer is a frightening reality for many families. It often strikes without warning and can turn a family’s life upside down. But understanding the basics of childhood cancer, its types, and what to look out for can help parents feel more informed and empowered."
According to Cansa, between 800 to 1 000 SA children are diagnosed with cancer annually. However, it’s estimated that half of the children with cancer in South Africa are never diagnosed.
Types of childhood cancer
Several types of cancers affect children. Some of the most common ones include:
Leukaemia: This is the most common type of cancer in children, making up about 28% of all cases. It affects the blood and bone marrow.
Brain and central nervous system tumours: These tumours account for about 26% of childhood cancers. They can impact how a child thinks, moves, and functions.
Neuroblastoma: This cancer comes from immature nerve cells and makes up around 6% of childhood cancers. It usually develops in the adrenal glands, near the kidneys.
Wilms Tumour: Also called nephroblastoma, this type of cancer affects the kidneys and is most common in children under five.
Lymphoma: This cancer affects the lymphatic system. There are two main types: Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It is said that about 150 children younger than 19 years old are diagnosed with lymphoma each year in South Africa.
Rhabdomyosarcoma: The most common type of soft tissue sarcoma in children, this cancer often appears in the head, neck, or reproductive and urinary organs.
Retinoblastoma: A rare cancer that affects the eyes of young children, usually before the age of five.
Signs and symptoms to watch for:
Cancer symptoms in children can easily be mistaken for other common illnesses. However, if certain symptoms persist, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. Some red flags that could signal childhood cancer include:
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Ongoing tiredness or paleness.
- Frequent bruising or bleeding.
- Repeated infections.
- Unexplained fevers.
- Bone or joint pain, especially if it disrupts sleep.
- Lumps or swellings that don’t go away.
- Headaches, often accompanied by early morning vomiting.
- Sudden vision changes.
- Persistent nausea or vomiting without a clear reason.
What to expect if your child is diagnosed
A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming for parents. Treatment often involves a team of specialists, including pediatric oncologists, nurses, and support staff.
Depending on the type of cancer, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination of these.
It’s important to remember that childhood cancers are often treated differently than adult cancers, with more focus on preserving a child’s development and quality of life.
While childhood cancer is rare, early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in outcomes. If you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms in your child, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.
As Hewlett emphasised, raising awareness about childhood cancer is key to helping families navigate this difficult journey.