SA shows solidarity with WHO campaign to support children with cancer
Written by Anchen Coetzee
Childhood cancer is often under-recognised in public health debates, yet it remains one of the most pressing healthcare challenges in South Africa. While survival rates have improved, access to early diagnosis and treatment continues to highlight sharp inequalities across the health system. In a media statement issued earlier this month, the Department of Health urged South Africans to stand in solidarity with children and teenagers living with cancer, together with their families. The call came as September marks International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a campaign observed worldwide and supported locally by the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (SAAPHO), the National Cancer Registry (NCR), CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa, and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Childhood cancer, though often perceived as rare, remains one of the leading causes of disease-related deaths among children globally. The WHO estimates that about 400,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, with approximately 1,000 cases in South Africa. Locally, leukaemia is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among children, according to the NCR.
September is internationally recognised as “Gold September,” symbolised by the gold ribbon, which stands for strength, resilience, and hope. This year’s campaign carries the theme Every Ribbon Holds a Name. Every Name Holds a Story. The Department and its partners asked South Africans: Who are you wearing your ribbon for this September?
The statement stressed that early detection is crucial for survival rates and better treatment outcomes. Too many children, it warned, are either not diagnosed or are diagnosed too late. To combat this, the Department urged the public to familiarise themselves with the SILUAN Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer and to seek medical attention promptly if they are observed. Timely referral to specialised care, it noted, can save lives.
South Africa reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the WHO’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer, which aims to raise survival rates by 2030. The national survival rate has improved to about 60 percent but still lags behind countries where rates exceed 80 percent.
The burden on families, the Department noted, is considerable. Treatment often requires long travel, extended time away from home, and additional financial pressures. Beyond the physical treatment of the child, entire families shoulder the emotional, psychological, and financial weight. This reality is echoed in the global campaign slogan, #WeAllLiveIt, highlighting how a diagnosis affects not just the child but the whole family.
The Department, NCR, CHOC, SAAPHO, and WHO also acknowledged the dedication of healthcare professionals and support organisations who provide essential care and compassion. The NCR reaffirmed its role in ensuring accurate data collection to guide national responses and improve outcomes.
According to Mr Hedley Lewis, CEO of CHOC: “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.”
Professor Gita Naidu, Chair of SAAPHO and Head of Paediatric Oncology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, added: “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.”
The WHO country representative for South Africa, Ms Shenaaz El-Halabi, stated: “Behind every childhood cancer diagnosis is a child with dreams, a family filled with hope, and a community that can make a difference. Far too many children are diagnosed too late, and far too many families walk 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.”
The Department encouraged all sectors of society, from public and private institutions to communities and individuals, to wear the gold ribbon during September and help spread awareness. It emphasised that awareness and action are not symbolic gestures but practical contributions that can improve survival rates and ensure that no child faces cancer alone.