With lymphoma affecting thousands of South Africans, the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) used World Lymphoma Awareness Day on September 15 to raise awareness of the disease, its warning signs and the challenges patients can face during diagnosis and treatment.

The international campaign, held under the theme “Navigating Lymphoma and CLL Together”, focused on ensuring that people living with lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), as well as their families, have access to reliable information, practical assistance and appropriate support.

According to CANSA national manager: health programmes Lorraine Govender, non-Hodgkin lymphoma was among the 10 most frequently diagnosed cancers affecting both men and women in South Africa.

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Understanding lymphoma

Lymphoma is a group of blood cancers that develops in the lymphatic system, which forms part of the body’s immune system.

The lymphatic system includes the lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow and other tissues involved in protecting the body against infection.

The two main categories are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, with each containing several subtypes.

National Cancer Registry data for 2024 recorded 1 251 cases of non-Hodgkin lymphoma among South African men and 1 095 among women, giving a combined total of 2 346 cases. The registry also recorded 659 cases of Hodgkin lymphoma during the year.

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Recognising the warning signs

Lymphoma symptoms can resemble those of other illnesses and may not always be immediately recognised.

Possible warning signs include:
• Painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, armpits or groin
• Persistent or unexplained fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever or recurring infections
• Drenching night sweats
• Persistent itching
• Abdominal swelling or discomfort
• A cough, chest discomfort or shortness of breath

These symptoms do not necessarily indicate lymphoma. However, persistent, worsening or unexplained symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Early assessment can help patients receive the necessary investigations and referrals without unnecessary delays.

The challenges beyond diagnosis

The 2026 Global Patient Survey on Lymphoma and CLL highlighted some of the difficulties experienced by patients during their cancer journeys.

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The campaign reported that 33% of respondents waited more than three months for a diagnosis after first seeking medical attention, while 41% experienced barriers to treatment, including travel difficulties, waiting times and disruptions to their daily responsibilities.

Physical and emotional effects were also common, with 92% reporting physical side effects related to treatment and 86% experiencing emotional difficulties such as anxiety, fear of recurrence or progression and concerns about compromised immunity.

In South Africa, CANSA highlighted factors such as travel distances, referral pathways, financial pressures and access to information and psychosocial support as potential challenges for patients.

Support through the cancer journey

CANSA’s patient-navigation approach aims to help people understand their diagnosis, access information and support, navigate healthcare services and manage some of the practical and emotional challenges associated with cancer.

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The organisation also provides cancer education and awareness programmes, patient support, clinical counselling, psychosocial assistance and accommodation through CANSA Care Homes for patients who need to travel for treatment.

Free, confidential tele-counselling is available to cancer patients, caregivers and family members, while educational resources and downloadable information are also provided through CANSA.

The awareness campaign also encouraged people affected by lymphoma or CLL, their families and healthcare professionals to support the “No Patient Travels Alone” pledge, reinforcing the importance of support throughout diagnosis, treatment and recovery.