Myths and misconceptions about childhood cancer are preventing some children from receiving life-saving treatment, according to WOWS Kids Fiji board member Anabel Ali, who is urging communities to end the stigma surrounding the disease.
Speaking at the launch of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Ali highlighted that the organisation has come across families and communities that discourage or even prevent children diagnosed with cancer from seeking medical treatment.
Ali says while adults have the right to make decisions about their own healthcare, children depend on their parents and caregivers to access treatment.
INSERT: Ali on cancer myths 31st July
Ali says delaying or refusing treatment can shorten a child's life and reduce their chances of recovery.
She says there is a misconception that a cancer diagnosis automatically means death, but many children can recover and go on to live normal lives if the disease is detected early and treated promptly.
Ali says WOWS Kids Fiji is currently supporting 64 children battling cancer across Fiji, including 43 boys and 21 girls, with a 10-month-old baby being the youngest child receiving support.
She says they have lost five children since January this year and see around 30 new childhood cancer cases annually.
She adds that the number of children affected by childhood cancer could be even higher, as some cases may be managed directly through hospitals or private healthcare providers.
Ali is urging communities to talk openly about childhood cancer, recognise the early warning signs and encourage families to seek medical attention as soon as possible, saying early diagnosis and access to treatment give children the best chance of survival.
