How to identify the early signs of childhood cancer
Childhood cancer poses a serious threat to South African children, but by heeding the early warning signs you might be able to detect the onset of the disease early on and in so doing access the necessary medical help.
According to the South African Medical Journal, “the overall survival rates for childhood cancer in South Africa remain low when compared to international data.”
“Greater awareness of the warning signs of childhood cancer can encourage earlier diagnosis and lead to improved outcomes for all ethnic groups,” according to CANSA.
It is important to be aware of the early WARNING SIGNS for childhood cancer.
In South Africa the St Siluan Warning Signs for Childhood Cancer list is used:
- S – Seek medical help early for persistent symptoms
- I – White spot in the eye, new squint, sudden blindness or bulging eyeball
- L – Lump on the stomach, pelvis, head, arms, legs, testicle or glands
- U – Unexplained fever present for over two weeks, weight loss, fatigue, pale appearance, easy bruising & bleeding
- A – Aching bones, joints, back and easy fractures
- N – Neurological signs, a change in walk, balance or speech, regression, contiguous headaches with/without vomiting & enlarged head
Read more: CANSA Lowveld given generous donation to be used for free screenings
CANSA urges parents who have any concerns about their child showing symptoms that they need to seek medical help immediately. Children with cancer need to receive the right treatment, preferably in a paediatric oncology unit.
For more information please contact CANSA Lowveld: Tel: 013-741 5441 / email: info@cansa.org.za
