West and Central African nations launch pediatric cancer awareness campaigns

Health organizations in Côte d’Ivoire and Gabon have launched the ‘September in Gold’ campaign to increase awareness and improve survival rates for pediatric cancer.

In Côte d’Ivoire, the Coalition des Organisations de Lutte contre le Cancer (COLCC), in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Public Hygiene and Roche, officially launched the national campaign. Organizers noted a significant gap in survival rates, with pediatric cancer recovery at approximately 35% in Côte d’Ivoire compared to a global average of nearly 80%. Challenges include a shortage of specialists, with only six pediatric oncologists currently in the country, and difficulties regarding early diagnosis.

In Gabon, the Fondation Dorcas launched the second edition of the campaign in Libreville. The initiative focuses on the theme ‘See early, act early’ to encourage the recognition of warning signs such as persistent fever, unusual fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and abnormal swelling. The campaign aims to create a vigilance network among parents and health professionals to ensure rapid medical intervention.