Closing the gap in healthcare this World Cancer Day

The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) is launching its equitable three-year campaign in celebration of World Cancer Day on Friday, 4 February.

Themed ‘Close the Gap’, the campaign aims to provide accessibility for early detection and treatments to cancer patients across the country.

Cansa CEO Elize Joubert explained the organisation has partnered with Hollard, Justine and Avon to sponsor the cause by providing mobile clinics for patients in remote areas.

‘Cancer patients in our country may have a very different experience regarding access to cancer screening, services, receiving timeous diagnoses, cancer treatment and support, depending on their socioeconomic status and where they live,’ said Joubert.

She said many patients simply cannot afford the travel costs to treatment facilities.

‘Our Cansa care homes meet their needs by providing a home-away-from-home, making it possible for patients who would otherwise not be able to receive treatment,’ said Joubert.

Cansa’s head of advocacy, Zodwa Sithole is also presenting training to traditional health practitioners from 26 January to 23 March 2022, to close the gap between medical and traditional forms of treatment.

This will include education on cancer and the importance of quick referrals for treatment. Educational material related to cancer treatment will also be distributed in seven languages.

The campaign is increasing awareness about Cansa’s free tele counselling sessions in seven languages.

The Cansa website provides free online resources and links to support groups. Its tele counselling services can be accessed through Cansa’s toll-free line 0800 22 66 22.

For further information, visit www.Cansa.org.za.