Childhood cancer is one of the most urgent, yet under-recognised, health challenges in South Africa. While cancers in children are relatively rare compared with adult cancers, they are a leading cause of disease-related death when not diagnosed and treated promptly. Each year, between 800 and 1 000 South African children are diagnosed with cancer. Yet data from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases and the National Cancer Registry indicate that fewer than half of these cases are diagnosed early enough to benefit from timely treatment, and many cases go entirely undetected. Thabiso Tema spoke to Prof. Janet Poole, paediatric haematologist-oncologist and member of the South African Children’s Cancer Study Group.

<p>Childhood cancer is one of the most urgent, yet under-recognised, health challenges in South Africa. While cancers in children are relatively rare compared with adult cancers, they are a leading cause of disease-related death when not diagnosed and treated promptly. Each year, between 800 and 1 000 South African children are diagnosed with cancer. Yet data from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases and the National Cancer Registry indicate that fewer than half of these cases are diagnosed early enough to benefit from timely treatment, and many cases go entirely undetected. Thabiso Tema spoke to Prof. Janet Poole, paediatric haematologist-oncologist and member of the South African Children&rsquo;s Cancer Study Group.</p>

POWER Breakfast is a fast-paced three-hour news and current affairs show, alternating between the latest breaking news, political coverage, analysis, sport, market reports, weather and all your calls. Whether you’re in business, the public service or just want to stay informed, tune in as Thabiso TT Tema connects you to your world.

<p>POWER Breakfast is a fast-paced three-hour news and current affairs show, alternating between the latest breaking news, political coverage, analysis, sport, market reports, weather and all your calls. Whether you&rsquo;re in business, the public service or just want to stay informed, tune in as Thabiso TT Tema connects you to your world.</p>