September Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Every September, individuals and organisations across the globe work to highlight the impact of childhood cancer and the urgent need for greater research, support, and resources.
This year, Neuroblastoma Australia is proud to present #30Faces — a heartfelt campaign that shares the stories of 30 courageous children, one for each day of the month.
Each child’s face represents a unique journey, filled with resilience, love, and hope.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to meet these incredible children and share their stories. Your support helps make neuroblastoma impossible to ignore.
What is Neuroblastoma?
Neuroblastoma is a rare and aggressive form of childhood cancer that develops from immature nerve cells, typically in the adrenal glands, which are situated on top of the kidneys.
However, it can also occur in other areas of the body, such as the chest, neck, and spine. This cancer primarily affects infants and young children, making it a particularly devastating diagnosis for families.
Incidence: Neuroblastoma accounts for approximately 6% of all childhood cancers, making it the most common cancer in children under five years of age. In Australia, a child is diagnosed with neuroblastoma every nine days.
Age of Diagnosis: The majority of neuroblastoma cases are diagnosed before the age of five, with the average age being just two-years-old.
Prognosis: The outlook for children with neuroblastoma varies widely depending on factors such as age at diagnosis, stage of the disease, and genetic markers. While some children can be successfully treated, others face a more challenging battle. Aggressive forms of the disease have a survival rate of just 50%.
Treatment Complexity: Treatment for neuroblastoma can involve a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplantation. Current treatments are often calibrated for adults and therefore highly toxic for children. The intensity of treatment can take a significant toll on young patients and their families.
Why Raising Awareness Matters
Too many people have never even heard of neuroblastoma. Raising awareness is a key aim of CCAM.
Early Detection: Awareness campaigns educate parents and healthcare providers about the signs and symptoms of neuroblastoma. Early detection can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Advancing Research: Raising awareness leads to increased funding for research into better treatments, less toxic therapies, and ultimately, a cure for neuroblastoma.
Support for Families: Families facing a neuroblastoma diagnosis often require emotional and financial support. Awareness efforts can connect them with valuable resources and a supportive community.
Fundraising for Research
Funding is crucial in the fight against neuroblastoma:
Research Breakthroughs: Advances in research have led to better treatment options and improved outcomes for neuroblastoma patients. Continued funding can drive further breakthroughs.
Developing Targeted Therapies: Funds raised contribute to the development of targeted therapies, which can be more effective and have fewer side effects than existing treatments.
Improving Quality of Life: Research can also focus on improving the quality of life for children undergoing treatment, reducing long-term side effects, and enhancing support programs for survivors.
How You Can Help During CCAM
Donate: Consider donating to Neuroblastoma Australia to support ongoing research and patient care.
Participate in Awareness Campaigns: Share our posts on the children’s stories on social media with your friends and family!
Fundraising Events: Attend or organise fundraising events in your community to raise funds for neuroblastoma research. Our web page has some great ideas, from Bunnings Sausage Sizzle to sponsored morning teas.
Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to Neuroblastoma Australia.
Every Child Deserves a Future
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the urgent need to focus on diseases like neuroblastoma that affect our youngest and most vulnerable.
By raising awareness and fundraising for research, we can contribute to better outcomes, improved treatments, and brighter futures for children battling this devastating disease.
Together, we can make a difference. Let’s make neuroblastoma impossible to ignore.
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