Story by Patience Nyagato
HEALTH experts have expressed concern over a noticeable increase in the number of children diagnosed with cancer, prompting widespread calls for enhanced public awareness and early detection strategies.
Official statistics reveal the severity of the crisis, with 263 cases of childhood cancers recorded in 2019 alone, accounting for nearly 14 per cent of all cancer diagnoses that year, resulting in multiple deaths and leaving survivors to share their arduous recovery journeys.
Lauren Moyo, a cancer survivor, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia when she was only 9.
“I was nine years old when my teacher slapped me, and I started bleeding in the nose continuously. This is when I was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. I am happy it was detected early because I survived. If not for early detection, I would be dead. The treatment process was not easy; it came with severe side effects. But I am happy I am fine now,” she said.
Now 19, Lauren dreams of becoming a neuroscientist, a symbol of hope that cancer in children can be beaten.
I believe God loves me well. I want to be a neuroscientist,” she added.
Stories like that of Lauren prove the importance of raising awareness about early detection, emphasising that cancer in children is curable if treated in time.
“Our survival rates remain low because many still do not know that children can get cancer. We are working with schools, parents, and health workers to identify symptoms early. No child should die of cancer if detected and treated early,” Kidzcan Executive Director, Mr Daniel McKenzie said.
As part of those awareness efforts, hundreds took part in a charity fun run at Donnybrook Raceway in Harare, raising funds to support cancer treatment for children.
“For thirteen years, we have worked with Kidzcan to promote early detection and help fund medicine and equipment. We have raised over US$400 000 since the event began, but awareness is worth more than money because it saves lives,” Founder Annual Husqvarna Mud Run, Grant Mitchell said.
“As title sponsors, our goal is to help spread the word and invite more corporations to support childhood cancer initiatives. Every effort counts,” noted Joshua Oates, Husqvarna Marketing Manager.
With cases of childhood cancer rising, the call is clear: greater awareness, early screening, and community support can make the difference between life and death.
