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"Access to health care is a constitutional right. We should do more to improve diagnosis, access to the best treatments and care, and quality support for children with cancer and their families, "said Mpho Phalatse, a member of the Mayor's committee for health and social development.
According to the Child Cancer Association, 80% of childhood cancer cases worldwide occur in low- and middle-income countries, and survival rates reach 10% in low-income countries, compared with 80% in countries with low-income countries. high income.
Currently, between 800 and 1,000 South African children are diagnosed with cancer each year, she said.
However, it is estimated that half of children with cancer in South Africa are misdiagnosed or have never been diagnosed.
Other factors contributing to low survival rates include lack of awareness and understanding of cancer in children; the inability of local health workers to detect early signs and symptoms; as well as the cost of treatment.
"No child should die of cancer when it can be treated with relatively simple and affordable treatments," added Phalatse.
The awareness month highlights some forms of cancer that are observed mainly in children.
Awareness, education and support are essential.
"I challenge everyone in the community to make a difference by donating R20 and receiving a gold ribbon," said Phalatse.
Ribbons can be purchased from the Childhood Cancer Foundation of SA, the Cancer Association of South Africa and Pick n Pay.
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