As the world rallies to raise awareness about childhood cancers during September, we at Wish4Life Foundation stand in solidarity to highlight the unique challenges faced by children battling this life-threatening illness.

This time of year, serves as a reminder of the devastating impact cancer has not only on individuals but also on families and communities across the globe.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that each year, around 400,000 children and adolescents aged 0-19 years are diagnosed with cancer with 70 percent of these children living in low-and middle-income countries.

In Ghana, the situation mirrors this troubling global trend, with approximately 1,200 children under the age of 15 expected to be diagnosed annually. Although these statistics are alarming, there is a glimmer of hope. Unlike adult cancers, childhood cancers have a remarkable survival rate of 80% if detected early and appropriate treatment is made available.

Unfortunately, in resource-constrained nations like Ghana, the story often takes a different turn. Sadly, only 20% of children diagnosed with cancer survive, largely due to barriers in accessing necessary medical care and treatments. One of the main obstacles contributing to this low survival rate is the prohibitive cost of treatment.

For instance, the cost of treatment for leukemia (cancer of the blood cells) can soar to as high as between $50,000 to $70,000 over three years, which is out of reach for many families in Ghana.

Sadly, only about 30% of patients in low-income countries manage to receive treatment in a few treatment centres located mainly in the big cities, resulting in many families being deprived of care and/abandoning treatment.

Previously, the abandonment rate for treatment stood at a staggering 50% due to financial constraints. Fortunately, through the generosity of numerous benevolent individuals and organizations, this number has drastically reduced to 15%.

As we observe Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we urge everyone including governments, organizations, community leaders, and citizens to join in the fight against childhood cancer. Support initiatives that enhance access to treatment and advocate better healthcare policies. Together, we can ensure that no parent must hear, “Your child has cancer,” without hope.

Wish4Life Foundation remains committed to this critical cause, and we invite you to stand with us in bringing awareness and change. Let’s work together to change the narrative for children with cancer in Ghana and across the globe.

Dr. Tanya Trippet, is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative the establishment of an International Children's Cancer Research Centre in Asikam. In the context of September's Cancer Awareness Month, this project couldn't come at a more crucial time for Ghana and the wider African continent. As we mark this month of advocacy, education, and reflection on the fight against cancer, it is essential to highlight the significance of this endeavor.

Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with alarming rates in developing countries, including Ghana.

The rise in cancer cases can be attributed to several factors, including lifestyle changes, environmental influences, and a lack of early detection services. Unfortunately, many cancer cases in Ghana are diagnosed at advanced stages, often resulting in poor outcomes. Addressing this public health challenge requires dedicated research, targeted interventions, and cutting-edge facilities precisely what the International Cancer Research Center aims to provide.

The proposed center in Asikam represents a critical step toward enhancing cancer research, treatment, and education in Ghana and beyond.

With its strategic location, the center will serve as a hub for collaboration among scientists, clinicians, and healthcare practitioners across Africa. This will foster an environment where innovative research can be conducted to address the unique cancer burden faced by the continent.

By focusing on local demographics and cancer types prevalent in African populations, the center will significantly contribute to the global body of knowledge regarding cancer treatment and prevention. Moreover, the center will play an essential role in raising awareness and educating both healthcare providers and the public about the importance of early detection and treatment options.

Through community outreach programs and workshops, the center will empower individuals with the knowledge to recognize cancer symptoms and understand the importance of regular screenings. Such initiatives are vital, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare and education is often limited.

Dr. Tanya Trippett's commitment to oncology research and community health is at the forefront of this initiative. Her vision extends beyond mere research; it encompasses a holistic approach to addressing cancer as a multifaceted health challenge.

The center will not only focus on scientific inquiries but also on psychological and social support systems that patients and families need during their cancer journeys.

Furthermore, the establishment of the International Cancer Research Center in Asikam aligns with global cancer initiatives aimed at sharing knowledge and resources across borders. It will facilitate research collaborations and partnerships with international institutions, paving the way for cutting-edge treatments and technologies to reach Ghanaian patients.

In conclusion, the creation of the International Cancer Research Center in Asikam is a significant milestone that has the potential to transform cancer care in Ghana and across Africa.

As we observe Cancer Awareness Month, it is vital to support initiatives that prioritize research, education, and community engagement in combating this devastating disease.

The Wish4Life Foundation, through Dr. Tanya Trippett's leadership, is leading a promising charge in the fight against cancer, promoting hope and healing for countless individuals in the region.

It is a call to action for all stakeholders to unite in this crucial endeavor that seeks to bring light to a shadowy battlefield.