To mark this year’s International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD), observed globally every 15th February, World Child Cancer intensified its public awareness drive in Ghana with a vibrant outreach campaign along Oxford Street in Osu.
The international charity, which is dedicated to improving childhood cancer care in low- and middle-income countries, took to one of Accra’s busiest commercial hubs to mobilize public support, educate communities, and encourage early healthcare-seeking for children showing signs of cancer.
International Childhood Cancer Day is a global platform aimed at highlighting the challenges faced by children battling cancer, advocating for improved treatment and care, and engaging policymakers and the public to prioritize better health outcomes for affected children.
Clad in branded T-shirts and armed with informational materials, volunteers and staff engaged pedestrians, traders, and motorists in conversations about the early warning signs of childhood cancers.
The team emphasized that early diagnosis significantly increases survival rates, yet many children in Ghana are brought to health facilities at advanced stages of the disease.
Speaking during the outreach, Project Coordinator of World Child Cancer Ghana, Adwoa Pinamang Boateng Desu, underscored the urgent need for sustained awareness and community involvement.
“Many parents are unaware that persistent fever, unusual swelling, unexplained weight loss, or prolonged fatigue could be signs of childhood cancer. Early detection can save lives,” she noted.
She added that beyond awareness, World Child Cancer continues to work closely with local health institutions to strengthen pediatric oncology services, provide psychosocial support to families, and advocate for policies that make cancer treatment more accessible and affordable.
The Oxford Street activation formed part of a broader campaign designed to bring the conversation about childhood cancer beyond hospital walls and into everyday public spaces.
Passersby were encouraged to share information within their communities and support efforts aimed at improving childhood cancer care.
Meanwhile, the Sales and Marketing Manager of Roots Hospitality International, Frank Owusu Danquah, explained that the company supported the outreach as part of its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community impact.
He noted that as a Ghanaian brand rooted in hospitality and service, Roots Hospitality International believes in supporting initiatives that promote health and well-being, particularly those focused on vulnerable children.
According to him, partnering with World Child Cancer for the International Childhood Cancer Day awareness campaign was a meaningful way to contribute to saving young lives and strengthening community awareness.
Mr. Danquah added that businesses have a critical role to play in supporting public health campaigns, emphasizing that collective action between the private sector and non-profit organizations can drive lasting change.
As the world commemorates ICCD, World Child Cancer is calling on government agencies, corporate bodies, health professionals, and individuals to join the fight against childhood cancer, ensuring that no child is denied the chance to survive simply because of where they are born.
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