July 29, 2019 Word for Word Media

In the previous article, we mentioned the importance of cancer advocacy to bring attention to areas of need in terms of cancer services in South Africa. Here are the eight challenges that were found in the research1. ONE: Emotional challenges  The total lack of psychosocial support services. The sparsity of psychosocial support services was reported in both the public and private oncology services in SA. Only a small number of patients could access support from a few cancer charities. The management of distress associated with cancer is a core part of the treatment protocol and is not sufficiently prioritised in SA oncology…

May 30, 2019 Word for Word Media
Salomé Meyer informs us of the recent picket held outside the WHO Fair Pricing Forum at Emperors Palace, Gauteng. Civil society meeting “Cancer is the new HIV!” is how Mark Heywood, former executive director of Section27, described the cancer crisis in SA at the Civil Society Stakeholder meeting arranged between Cancer Alliance and Treatment Action Campaign (TAC), in April.  The reality is with the successful treatment of people living with HIV, many are now living longer than expected and are facing co-morbidities, such as cancer.  At this meeting, it was agreed that Cancer Alliance, TAC, Section27 and organised labour…

May 30, 2019 Word for Word Media
All cancer survivors and people touched by cancer are encouraged to step up and add their voice to the efforts made by Cancer Alliance to address the cancer care crisis in SA. Why should cancer patients be involved in advocacy? As cancer advocates, we are the watchdogs regarding improved service delivery to cancer patients; getting more affordable pricing of cancer medication for all South Africans; and ensuring that cancer policies and strategic plans are implemented.  The current breakdown of healthcare services in the state sector is of great concern and we need to be the voice asking and pushing for change and…