Cansa sparks honest conversations this World Lymphoma Awareness Day

The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) is shining a light on lymphoma this World Lymphoma Awareness Day (September 15).

It calls for more open conversations and stronger support for patients and their loved ones. Lymphoma, often misunderstood, is one of the fastest-growing cancers worldwide.

Annually, more than 810 000 people are diagnosed globally, and the emotional toll can be as difficult as the physical illness.

In SA, the latest National Cancer Registry figures (2023) show over 2 200 new cases of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) and nearly 640 cases of Hodgkin’s lymphoma, placing NHL among the top 10 most common cancers in men and women (when including skin cancers).

Cansa provides vital services to those affected, including counselling, support groups, navigation of the health system, patient care homes and evidence-based information in local languages. It’s Cansa Tele Counselling and online support platforms also ensure no one faces lymphoma alone.

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As part of this year’s global campaign theme, ‘It’s Time for Honest Talk,’ the organisation is promoting the Lymphoma Coalition’s Honest Talk Conversation Starters, practical, downloadable tools that help patients, caregivers, and families have vital discussions with doctors, employers and loved ones.

“Challenging feelings are a normal part of the cancer experience, but shouldn’t be faced in silence,” said Lorraine Govender, Cansa’s national manager of health programmes.

“That’s why Cansa integrates emotional, practical and clinical support into everything we do.

“Cansa’s membership with the Lymphoma Coalition keeps us aligned with the latest information on lymphoma or chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, enabling us to share it with the SA public, while adhering to the global standards for excellence in lymphoma care outlined in the Lymphoma Charter”, said Govender.

According to the Psychological Impact of Lymphoma Report, conversations about a diagnosis or test results can be difficult, but 96% of people with lymphoma said that doctors sharing the complete truth is crucial.

The Honest Talk Medical News Conversation Starter helps patients and care partners confidently engage with their healthcare team to get the complete information they need.

A lymphoma diagnosis affects more than just the patient; 91% of care partners report emotional strain. The Honest Talk Care Partner Conversation Starter helps carers express their needs and seek the support they deserve.

All Conversation Starters are available for free download at www.worldlymphomaawarenessday.org and can be shared with medical teams or personal contacts to help start difficult conversations and address pressing matters.

“Early awareness and strong support networks can make a life-changing difference. By starting these honest conversations, we can break down barriers and ensure patients feel understood and supported,” added Govender.

“The Honest Talk Return-to-Work Conversation Starter helps you confidently open discussions about returning to the workplace and can be shared with your manager, colleagues or HR.”

Recognising the unique challenges faced by lymphoma patients, survivors and their families, Cansa provides counselling and individual and group counselling and online platforms, including a dedicated Facebook group for survivors.

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Govender shared, “We’ve developed and share evidence-based fact sheets and educational material on lymphoma in English and other SA languages to improve public knowledge.

“Our Cansa Care Homes provide affordable lodging for out-of-town lymphoma patients while they undergo treatment at oncology centres.”

About the Lymphoma Coalition

The Lymphoma Coalition is a global network of patient organisations that support those affected by lymphoma.

The LC is a central hub for reliable and current information, and advocates globally for equitable care.

Its mission is to enable global impact by fostering a lymphoma ecosystem that ensures local change, evidence-based action and advocating for equitable care around the world.

Today, there are more than 90 member organisations from over 55 countries. Find out more at www.lymphomacoalition.org