Warning the significance of parental observance, medical experts Dr. Samuel Oyeleke from the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, emphasize the importance of recognizing potential signs of illness in children.
Speaking at the news conference and the walk organised by Akanimo Cancer Foundation in commemoration of the 2024 International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) 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.”
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.
Childhood cancer remains a formidable health challenge globally, affecting thousands of families each year.
In the ongoing battle against this disease, early detection plays a pivotal role in improving treatment outcomes and saving lives.
To raise awareness about childhood cancer and emphasize the critical role of parents and caregivers in early detection, the Founder of Akanimo Cancer Foundation, Idara Ekanem, said the event, organized to mark the 2024 International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD), aimed to shed light on the global campaign to raise awareness about childhood cancer and show support for children, adolescents, survivors, and their families.
With this year’s theme “Unveiling Challenges,” Ekanem emphasized the need to address the various obstacles faced by children with cancer, caregivers, and healthcare professionals worldwide.
ALSO READ: What we are doing to tackle childhood cancer – FG
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.
ALSO READ: WHO harps on early detection to tackle childhood cancers
Earlier, the Project Coordinator, Akanimo Cancer Foundation, Oyo State Chapter, Emuoghoke Emonena-Solotan, said, in her address, 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.
NAN
