DR. KANIKA GUPTA
International childhood cancer day is a global collaborative campaign to raise the awareness about childhood cancer and to express support for children and adolescents with cancer, the survivors, and their families.
The objective of this day is to foster a heightened appreciation and a more profound comprehension of the issues and obstacles associated with childhood cancer. This includes its effects on children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer, as well as the challenges faced by survivors, their families, and society at large.
Furthermore, the day emphasizes the imperative for improved and more equitable access to treatment and care for all children dealing with cancer, regardless of their geographical location. This annual event was established in 2002, initiated by Childhood Cancer International, a global network comprising 176 parent organizations, childhood cancer survivor associations, support groups, and cancer societies in over 93 countries spanning five continents.
Do You Know?
A child succumbs to cancer every three minutes, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Annually, over 400,000 children and adolescents under the age of 20 receive a cancer diagnosis. Survival rates vary globally, with high-income countries boasting an 80% survival rate, while low and middle-income countries struggle with a mere 20% survival rate.
The WHO Global Childhood Cancer Initiative sets a crucial target goal: to eradicate the pain and suffering endured by children battling cancer. By 2030, the initiative aims to achieve a minimum of 60% survival for all children diagnosed with cancer worldwide. This ambitious goal entails nearly doubling the current cure rate, ultimately saving an additional one million children’s lives in the next decade.
Significance of the day
International Childhood Cancer Day holds significant importance as it serves as a dedicated global platform to raise awareness about childhood cancer and its impact on children, adolescents, survivors, families, and society at large. The day provides an opportunity to:
- Increase Awareness: It helps in spreading awareness about the prevalence of childhood cancer, its signs and symptoms, and the challenges faced by young patients and their families.
- Advocate for Equitable Access: The day emphasizes the need for better and more equitable access to treatment and care for children with cancer worldwide. It sheds light on the disparities in survival rates between high-income and low-middle income countries.
3.Support for Families: International Childhood Cancer Day acknowledges the emotional, financial, and psychological burdens that families of children with cancer often endure. It promotes support systems and resources for these families. - Promote Research and Funding: The day encourages increased funding and research for childhood cancer, aiming to improve treatment options, enhance survival rates, and minimize the long-term effects of cancer treatments on young patients.
5.Global Collaboration: It fosters collaboration among international organizations, governments, healthcare professionals, and communities to work together in addressing the challenges posed by childhood cancer on a global scale. - Highlight Achievements:The day celebrates the progress made in the field of childhood cancer treatment and survivorship, recognizing the efforts of healthcare professionals, researchers, and organizations dedicated to improving outcomes for young cancer patients.
In summary, International Childhood Cancer Day plays a crucial role in advocating for better care, support, and outcomes for children with cancer worldwide, ultimately aiming to reduce the impact of childhood cancer on individuals, families, and societies.
(The author is a Ph.D. in Human Development from University of Jammu).