Every September, the world observes Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, also known as Gold September. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about childhood cancers, promoting early diagnosis, and emphasising the urgent need for funding. It is also a time to honour the courage of young patients and survivors, remember the children whose lives were lost, and support the families affected.

Why Gold?

Gold is one of the most precious materials on earth, and children are our most precious treasures. The gold ribbon has therefore become the universal symbol for childhood cancer awareness, representing all types of cancers affecting children and adolescents. It serves as a powerful reminder to bring attention and hope to this cause.

Childhood Cancer in South Africa

In South Africa, fewer than half of children with cancer are currently diagnosed, and many of those who are diagnosed are already in an advanced stage. This is often due to limited awareness and lack of recognition of early warning signs within parts of the healthcare system.

Early warning signs to look out for include:

• Persistent lumps or swelling

• Extreme tiredness or unexplained weight loss

• Easy bruising or unusual bleeding

• Frequent headaches or vision changes

• Bone pain

• Difficulty walking or changes in speech

The most common childhood cancers in South Africa are:

1. Leukaemia

2. Lymphoma (tumours of the lymph glands)

3. Brain tumours

4. Nephroblastomas/Wilms tumours (kidney cancer)

5. Soft tissue sarcomas (tumours in connective tissue)

It is important to understand that childhood cancers are very different from adult cancers. Because children are still growing rapidly, their cancers can spread faster and more aggressively. This means that treatments designed for adults are not always effective for children.

Campaigns and Support in September

Two key organisations in South Africa are leading awareness efforts this month:

• Cupcakes of HOPE – On Saturday, 27 September, they will host National Cupcake Day, inviting bakers across the country to spread joy while raising funds for families needing medical assistance.

• CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA – Their 2025 campaign carries the theme: “Every Ribbon Holds a Name. Every Name Holds a Story.” Behind every gold ribbon lies a story of bravery, resilience, heartbreak, and love. CHOC encourages everyone to wear a gold ribbon with purpose—and to reflect on who you are wearing it for.

Standing Together

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is not only about creating awareness but also about action. By learning the early signs, supporting affected families, and contributing to organisations making a difference, we can all help give children with cancer a fighting chance at life.

Sources: CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA, South African Government, Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), Cupcakes of HOPE