Childhood cancer awareness month
Currently, an estimated 800 to 1 500 children are diagnosed with cancer annually, according to Rina Burke, Relay for Life coordinator for the East Rand.
Families, caregivers, charities and research groups across the nation observe September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Cancer is often a life-threatening illness that remains one of the leading causes of death by disease, worldwide.
Most South African children, regardless of ethnicity, are affected by Leukaemia (blood cancer).
Retino Blastoma (cancer of the eye) is the second most prevalent cancer in black South African children, while various types of brain tumours are the second most prevalent in white South African children.
Burke explains how children’s cancers are often placed in the same category as adult cancers, however, she notes that there is a vast difference between childhood cancers and adult cancers.
“Treatment or advice that may work for adults, may not necessarily work for children.
“The causes of cancer in adults are also usually attributable to lifestyle choices, whereas in children, genetic factors, environmental factors and lifestyle play a role,” she says.
“Children grow quickly within a short period of time and the growth of the cancer is influenced by this.”
In September, the focus is on the awareness of childhood cancers and informing the public on the importance of the early detection.
“An incorrect diagnosis by someone less knowledgeable can allow the cancer time to build up resistance to treatment.
“The quicker a child is diagnosed correctly, the better his or her chance of survival,” says Burke.
