This programme is the climax of the Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The Childhood Cancer. Awareness Month also referred to as the “Gold Month” is celebrated in September annually. Globally, it is a month used to raise awareness and funding about childhood cancers.
'Childhood cancers' is a term used to describe cancers that occur between birth and 15 years of age. They are sometimes also referred to AS pediatric cancers. Common types of childhood cancer include leukemia, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, retinoblastoma, Wilms tumor (a type of kidney cancer), and cancers of the brain, bone, and soft tissue.
The purpose of this meeting is to bring experts on childhood cancer including stakeholders to dialogue on key issues in the country and find workable solutions going forward as part of activities for the Global Initiative on Childhood Cancer in Ghana.
Many childhood cancers are curable with high-income countries achieving about 80% cure rate but Africa achieving only about 20%. The most effective strategy to reduce the burden of cancer in children is to focus on a prompt and correct diagnosis. Early diagnosis is relevant in all settings and improves survival for many cancers. It centres on three main components namely awareness by families and accessing care; clinical evaluation, diagnosis and staging; and access to treatment. This event seeks to fulfill the following objectives:
- To discuss the clinical and social aspects of Childhood cancer
- To outline what national strategies have been put in place for childhood cancer
- To discuss the role of stakeholders and the public in advocacy for childhood cancer.
- To launch a Medical Aid Film (MAF) on Childhood Cancers
