By Berna Nansubuga
In Uganda, childhood cancer remains a silent crisis. Each year, over 3,000 children are expected to develop the disease, yet only three in ten receive treatment.
As Childhood Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, voices like Dr Joyce Balagadde of the Uganda Cancer Institute and advocate Ichodo Moses are pushing for awareness, equity, and survivorship in a country where too many children are left behind.
Globally, childhood cancer cases are on the rise, and Uganda is no exception. The reasons remain unclear, but Dr Balagadde, head of the Pediatric Oncology Division at the Uganda Cancer Institute, points to low levels of awareness among parents and communities.
“Symptoms of cancer in children include persistent fever, unexplained weight loss, and abnormal swelling. Yet when a diagnosis is made, hope often vanishes,” she said.
According to Dr. Balagadde, many parents believe cancer is a death sentence, which worsens the situation. “Parents think cancer is a death sentence, yet cancer in young children is preventable, unlike that of older people,” she added.
At the Uganda Cancer Institute, efforts are underway to shift the narrative. Dr. Balagadde and her team are strengthening follow-up systems to ensure children live better lives after diagnosis.
Plans are in motion to establish an examination centre so children can continue their education during treatment, and fertility preservation services are also being advocated for to safeguard their future.
“Cancer in children is totally different from that in adults. We are still conducting research on what causes cancer in children,” she explained.
She urged parents and communities to be more vigilant. “If your child shows any unusual symptoms, don’t wait. Visit the cancer institute for a check-up,” she said.
Her appeal is clear: Ugandans must move from fear to hope, and from silence to action. Every child deserves not only the chance to survive cancer but also to live, learn, and thrive.