CHICA Namibia and the fight against childhood cancer

Childhood cancer is a global challenge, affecting young lives and families everywhere. In Namibia, approximately 250 children are diagnosed with cancer each year, and these young fighters and their families endure physical, emotional and financial challenges as they battle this devastating disease.

In response to this pressing issue, the Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) established the CHICA (Children with Cancer) Namibia programme.

The CHICA Interim Home, located in Windhoek, has become a beacon of hope for families fighting childhood cancer. This facility opens its doors to parents and brave young patients receiving treatment. The CHICA Fund, a vital part of this initiative, provides financial support to paediatric oncology patients and assists with funeral costs for financially vulnerable patients who, sadly, lose the battle with cancer.

On Tuesday, Geka Pharma donated N$120 000 to the CHICA programme.

In addition to CHICA, CAN supports the Ward 8 West Paediatric Oncology Unit at Windhoek Central Hospital. This ongoing project is crucial in ensuring that children with cancer receive the best possible care and support.

"We are honoured to make our annual contribution to CAN for the CHICA House. We have long admired your great work, not just for your enthusiasm for cancer patients, but also for your goal of raising awareness and prevention through education and supporting your efforts," Nadia Coetzee, managing director of Geka Pharma, said.

The most common cancers affecting children in Namibia include leukemia (blood cancer), retinoblastoma (eye cancer), nephroblastoma (kidney cancer), brain tumours and lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system). Unlike some adult cancers, childhood cancer generally cannot be prevented or identified through screening.

Therefore, recognising the signs and symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment. Common signs include unexplained weight loss, persistent pain, fatigue and changes in the appearance of their eyes. If parents or caregivers notice any unusual or persistent symptoms in their children, it's essential to consult a medical professional promptly.

"We need more awareness campaigns on children's cancer, and we need to start thinking about themes for children; we can have a blue theme for men, yellow and gold for children, just like we have pink for breast cancer," Rolf Hansen, CEO of CAN, said.

CAN emphasised that most childhood cancers can be cured with generic medicines and other forms of treatment, including surgery and radiotherapy. Avoidable deaths from childhood cancers in low- and middle-income countries result from lack of diagnosis, misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis, obstacles to accessing care, abandonment of treatment, death from toxicity, and relapse, Hansen said.

"The fight against childhood cancer is a collaborative effort, and CAN is grateful to its critical stakeholder, Geka Pharma, for its continued support in assisting families afflicted by childhood cancer diagnosis. Together, with the dedication of healthcare professionals, organisations and the community, we can make a significant difference in the lives of children battling cancer in Namibia."