A heart for hope: CHOC calls on communities to make a difference
Communities are being urged to stand together and ensure no family faces the childhood cancer journey alone.
This September, during International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA is calling on South Africans to Have a Heart by learning the early warning signs of childhood cancer, listening to the stories of affected families and taking action to support children and teenagers on their cancer journey.
Every year, an estimated 400 000 children and teenagers aged 0 to 19 are diagnosed with cancer worldwide.
According to the World Health Organisation, more than 80% of children with cancer are cured in high-income countries, compared with fewer than 30% in many low- and middle-income countries.
In South Africa, about 1 000 children and teenagers are diagnosed with cancer each year. However, too many are still diagnosed late or may never reach a paediatric oncology unit. Improving awareness and referral pathways can help ensure children receive the treatment and support they need as early as possible.
“Having a heart means paying attention, speaking up and acting early. It means recognising persistent symptoms, supporting families through treatment and helping ensure that no child, teenager or family has to navigate the cancer journey alone,” says Eugene Subban, chairperson of CHOC.
CHOC urges parents, caregivers, teachers, healthcare workers and communities to learn the SILUAN Early Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer:
• S – Seek medical help: Seek medical attention early for ongoing or unexplained symptoms
• I – Eye changes: A white spot in the eye, new squint, sudden blindness or a bulging eyeball
• L – Lump: A lump on the stomach, pelvis, head, arms, legs, testicle or glands
• U – Unexplained symptoms: Fever lasting more than two weeks, weight loss, fatigue, pale appearance, easy bruising or bleeding
• A – Aching bones: Bone, joint or back pain, or easy fractures
• N – Neurological signs: Changes in walking, balance or speech, regression, persistent headaches with or without vomiting, or an enlarged head
Subban says these symptoms do not always indicate cancer. However, symptoms that are unexplained, persistent or worsening should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
For guidance, contact the CHOC helpline on 0800 333 555 or visit www.choc.org.za.
Have a Heart: Take action this September
CHOC is calling on communities to make a difference by:
• Learning the signs and sharing the SILUAN warning signs with others
• Listening to families and making space for the experiences of children, teenagers and survivors
• Wearing gold and using the Gold Ribbon to raise awareness of childhood cancer
• Sharing hope by using reliable information and helping families find support
• Supporting families through donations, partnerships, volunteering or practical assistance
“CHOC supports children, teenagers and their parents through accommodation close to treatment centres, transport assistance, psychosocial and practical support, educational programmes, awareness, education and advocacy. These services help families remain close to treatment while dealing with the emotional, practical and financial challenges of a cancer diagnosis,” Subban continued.
The campaign also supports the World Health Organisation’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer, which aims to achieve 60% survival for children with cancer worldwide by 2030 while reducing suffering and improving quality of life.
“This September, having a heart is more than a message – it is a decision to notice, care and act. Have a Heart. Learn the signs. Wear gold. Share hope. Support families,” Subban concluded.
Visit www.choc.org.za or call 0800 333 555 to learn more and get involved.
