By Godfred Aaneamenga Polkuu, GNA
Bolgatanga, Sept. 9, GNA – Mr Roger Tandanbil, an Oncology Nurse Specialist at the Upper East Regional Hospital, Bolgatanga, has called for intensified efforts to promote early recognition, diagnosis and timely treatment of childhood cancer as the world marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
He made the call in an interview with the Ghana News Agency on the sideline of the hospital’s maiden launch of childhood cancer awareness month also known as Gold Ribbon.
The launch was on the theme: “Demonstrating Impact: From Challenge to Change.”
It was organized by the Paediatric Oncology Unit of the hospital in collaboration with the Childhood Cancer Society of Ghana, and attended by heads of departments, paediatric specialist doctors, nurses among other officials.
Mr Tandanbil urged healthcare professionals to play leading roles in identifying warning signs of cancer in children and educating communities on the importance to seek early medical care.
“As we officially launch this Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, together, let us forward a message of early recognition, early diagnosis and timely intervention,” the oncology nurse specialist said.
He noted that healthcare professionals had a vital responsibility in helping families recognize possible symptoms and ensuring that children received appropriate care without unnecessary delays.
“As health workers, we have a vital role in identifying the warning signs and educating our communities,” Mr Tandanbil added.
The call comes as stakeholders seek to improve childhood cancer outcomes and give affected children better opportunities for survival and recovery.
The oncology nurse specialist further urged stakeholders to ensure that every child had access to the care they needed and reiterated the importance of timely intervention.
“May this launch renew the commitment to childhood cancer outcomes by giving every child the chance to survive and thrive,” he said.
The awareness month is expected to serve as an opportunity to increase public understanding of childhood cancer, encourage early reporting of warning signs and strengthen support for affected children and their families.
Mr Tandanbil called for collective action and urged members of the public and health professionals to raise awareness and give children battling cancer renewed hope.
“Together, let us raise the awareness, give these little ones new hope and save their lives,” the oncology nurse specialist said.
GNA
Edited by Caesar Abagali/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Godfred Aaneamenga Polkuu
Reporter’s email: [email protected]