Support is key in fighting cancer
Awareness: Cancer annually kills more people around the world than TB, Aids and malaria combined
With over 100 000 South Africans being diagnosed with cancer annually, and more people around the world dying from this illness than TB, Aids and malaria combined, cancer is clearly a force to be reckoned with.
Netcare showed solidarity with cancer patients on World Cancer Day by raising awareness of the global impact of cancer and educating the world population on prevention, detection, treatment and care. World Cancer Day is marked annually on February 4.
“The theme for World Cancer Day 2015 is ‘Not beyond us’, which takes a proactive approach to the battle against cancer. This theme emphasised existing solutions within our reach that impact positively on the global cancer burden,” noted Executive: Oncology at Netcare, Noeleen Phillipson.
The 2015 World Cancer campaign focused on four key areas: making healthy life choices, promoting early detection, attaining treatment for all and enhancing quality of life.
To support cancer sufferers, Netcare teamed up with Cancer Buddies, the peer-to-peer support group for people living with this disease. The buddy support network, which is one of the most established volunteer psycho-social projects in the country, allows cancer patients to interact with and receive advice from cancer survivors who have a similar profile, disease and treatment protocol.
“Netcare believes that a solid support system which complements cancer treatment is vital in fighting this illness. Support groups like Cancer Buddies give cancer patients a way of coping with their diagnosis and improving their quality of life. These groups help to reduce loneliness and loss of hope, which are significant stressors associated with cancer. Participating in support groups can change cancer sufferers’ attitude towards their illness, decrease depression and give them a new lease on life,” notes Phillipson.
In order to show solidarity with cancer patients and promote a healthy lifestyle, Netcare employees will join representatives from Cancer Buddies in distributing food parcels to around 300 cancer patients at the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital in Johannesburg on World Cancer Day.
“Cancer sufferers need to know that they are not alone in this battle. In addition, because 90 per cent of cancers are caused by enviromental and lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking and exercise, healthy eating is key,” says Phillipson.
One of Netcare’s hospitals which follow the philosophy that support is vital in winning the battle against cancer is Netcare Unitas Hospital in Pretoria. According to Carina Fourie, Child Support Counsellor at Netcare Unitas Hospital” “We see many children with cancer who come in for medical treatment. They are at a very vulnerable point in their lives, and feel scared and alone.”
Contact Cancer Buddies on 0800 033 337 or visit www.cancerbuddies.org.za for more information on this support group.
