QUICK VIEW
What are the hindrances to childhood cancer treatment?
There is a lack of knowledge of the early warning signs of childhood cancer. In certain countries there is nothing in the basic or post basic training of nurses on paediatric oncology. Certain non-specific early symptoms may often appear like common childhood illness, for e.g. fever, fatigue, bone pain, weight loss and the healthcare professionals might miss the early warning sign for childhood cancer. Childhood cancer is a rare disease and healthcare workers may consider more likely causes first. Childhood cancer appears in the developing cells and grows quickly, leaving little time for gradual diagnosis. There is no routine cancer screening for children, so knowing the early warning signs is very important.
In general, there is limited access to specialized care, especially for people from rural or low-resource areas where there are no paediatric oncologists or diagnostic facilities. Shortages of imaging, pathology, or lab facilities can also delay diagnosis. Additionally, there are often delays in referrals due to long waiting times for specialist appointments and lack of previous medical records may delay early diagnosis.
In many cases communication is a huge barrier to early diagnosis. Parents might think that symptoms are normal growing pains or infections. Social Workers or interpreters are needed to overcome the language barrier that causes miscommunication between healthcare workers and the patient or family.
Many families do not have the means to pay for transportation, tests or treatment and this may also cause delays in the early diagnosis or treatment. Most Childhood Cancer International (CCI) member organisations enhance paediatric oncology in their countries and support families with practical and emotional support.
Myths and beliefs that lead to stigma. Many people, especially in low-income countries (LIC) and low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) prefer to visit alternative medicine or traditional healers which can cause a delay in early diagnosis. With different philosophies, practices and underlying principles, western medicine and traditional medicine represent distinct approaches to healthcare. Western medicine, also known as modern or conventional medicine, emphasizes a scientific and technological approach, focussed on diagnosing and treating diseases through evidence-based interventions.
Traditional medicine, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of healthcare practices rooted in cultural traditions and beliefs and often incorporates holistic approaches that consider the mind, body, and spirit. The time that families spend in seeking help from traditional medicine may be a long journey and result in late or non-diagnosis.
Read More:
Breaking barriers and saving lives: overcoming stigmas and enhancing childhood cancer awareness in South Africa Breaking barriers and saving lives: overcoming stigmas and enhancing childhood cancer awareness in South Africa - ecancer
Related Parent Carers
Informational stressors for parents (caregivers) who have a child diagnosed with cancer
A child with cancer will always have a multidisciplinary team, and within that, each discipline (like nurses, doctors, therapists) may function as intra-disciplinary sub-teams to ensure consistency.
Educating your community of family and friends
Sharing a child’s cancer journey with one’s community can raise awareness, build understanding, and gather emotional or practical support. However, it is equally important to do so in a way that protects the child’s privacy and the family’s emotional wellbeing.
Message from parents to parents
Hearing that your child has cancer is one of the most overwhelming experiences a parent can face. It often triggers a series of emotional and psychological reactions, commonly described in phases like the stages of grief, though each parent may experience them differently.