Early diagnosis of childhood cancer important — Experts

Parents have been warned to take the health status of their children seriously so as to recognise potential signs of their illness.

A medical expert from the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, Dr Samuel Oyeleke stated this on Thursday during a sensitisation programme in Ibadan tagged ‘Childhood Cancer Awareness Walk’ organised by Akanimo Cancer Foundation.

The programme was part of commemoration of the 2024 International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD). He also added the significance of parents taking proactive measures such as preventing exposure to second-hand smoke and minimizing radiation exposure to safeguard the health of their children.

According to him, he said childhood cancer remains a formidable health challenge globally, affecting thousands of families each year.

Oyeleke said “There are several symptoms that parents should be attentive to, including persistent headaches and changes in eye colour, swelling in any part of the body, ongoing constipation, abdominal pain, and persistent fatigue are also indicators that require attention.

“In the ongoing battle against this disease, early detection plays a pivotal role in improving treatment outcomes and saving lives.”

Also, the founder of foundation, Idara Ekanem, disclosed that to raise awareness about childhood cancer and emphasise the critical role of parents and caregivers in early detection

The programme was aimed to shed light on the global campaign to raise awareness about childhood cancer and show support for children, adolescents, survivors, and their families.

She said is important to address the various obstacles faced by children with cancer, caregivers, and healthcare professionals worldwide.

Ekanem stressed the crucial role of parents in safeguarding their children’s health, stating, “No one is more ready to invest in their children’s well-being than parents. By getting to know the early signs and symptoms of certain cancers and looking out for them, parents can save their child’s life.”

She highlighted the foundation’s mission to raise awareness about childhood cancer, noting that since its inception two years ago, it has sponsored treatment for seven children and is currently supporting treatment for five others.

The awareness campaign spanned six cities including Kano, Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan, Uyo, and Port Harcourt, aiming to reach a wide audience and foster understanding about childhood cancer.

Earlier in her address, the Project Coordinator, Oyo State Chapter, Emuoghoke Emonena-Solotan, said that the ICCD was not just about raising awareness but also calling all stakeholders to play a part in the fight against childhood cancer.

“Parents must know the early signs and symptoms of certain cancers and stay on the lookout for them in children for proper treatment,” she said.