CHILDHOOD Cancer Foundation SA (CHOC) has launched a new campaign – ‘Children Do Get Cancer’. The organisation believes that this is an opportunity for them to create more awareness and debunk the myths about children getting cancer.
CHOC is a non-profit organisation that advocates for the health and well-being of children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer or life-threatening blood disorders, and for their families.
Also read: Cancer activist benefits from campaign
The passionate and dedicated staff and volunteers of CHOC aim to save lives through early detection and comprehensive support programmes for the families affected by cancer.
They offer psychosocial, emotional and practical support as they augment the different medical fraternities.
In promoting their new campaign, they have shared myths and facts about the illness.
Myths and facts
– Myth: Cancer is contagious and can spread like the flu.
Did you know that cancer is not contagious? A healthy person cannot catch cancer from another person. Close contact or activities like kissing, touching, sharing meals or breathing the same air cannot spread cancer. We isolate children with cancer to protect them as their immunity is low and they are then vulnerable to infections.
– Myth: Children don’t get cancer.
Childhood cancer is a rare disease, and 1 in 500 to 1 in 600 children under the age of 16 might get cancer. In SA, we diagnose around 1 000 children per year, and many still go undiagnosed. Did you know the cancers that affect children are unique to them and are different from adult cancer? The encouraging news is that if diagnosed early, the cure rate is that much better. Knowing the early warning signs of childhood cancer can save a life!
– Myth: Childhood cancer is a death sentence.
Did you know most childhood cancers are curable? Survival rates in high-income countries reach an average of 84% and are steadily improving even in less-resourced areas of the world where there are integrated programmes. Eighty percent of children with cancer live in low- and middle-income countries, like South Africa. The survival rate in SA is around 55% and is on the rise.
– Myth: Cancer is a form of punishment or a curse
Did you know that the majority of childhood cancers occur spontaneously? No one knows what causes childhood cancer, although there are many different theories. A huge amount of research is being carried out worldwide, with studies into several possible causes. Childhood cancer is NOT caused by diet or lifestyle choices.
– Myth: We should not talk about cancer.
Cancer is a difficult subject to talk about, especially cancer in children. However, we need to create awareness around the signs and symptoms of childhood cancer, ensuring children get medical attention early. Early detection saves lives.
To help make a difference and support CHOC, people can follow this link to donate: https://choc.org.za/donate-to-choc/
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