Efforts must be made by the community and healthcare organizations to address the widespread lack of awareness and fear surrounding pediatric cancer in the country.
Dr. Siobhan Cross, a pediatric cancer expert based in Christchurch, New Zealand, highlights that one of the major challenges in managing pediatric cancer is the prevalent misconceptions and fears associated with the disease. She leads the Twinning Program for pediatric oncology that connects Christchurch Hospital with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
Dr. Cross noted that parents often struggle with questions regarding the reasons behind their child’s cancer diagnosis, sometimes blaming themselves or resorting to superstitions, particularly in areas with limited educational resources. “In some communities with less access to education, parents may even believe that they have been cursed or that someone else is to blame for their child’s illness, which is simply not true,” remarked Dr. Cross.
She emphasized the importance of community awareness, stating that neither the parents nor the child is at fault for the diagnosis. Cancer, she explained, arises from random genetic mutations rather than parental actions or curses.
This core misunderstanding can worsen the emotional and psychological burden for families facing the serious illness of a child. Dr. Cross pointed out that the stigma surrounding cancer often fuels fear and misinformation, leading to further isolation for affected families.
“It’s not just a problem in Fiji; this fear exists globally. Even with advances in modern medicine, cancer is still seen as a frightening prospect,” she noted. Dr. Cross identified the stigma associated with cancer as a major issue, highlighting that the sudden nature of the diagnosis leaves families questioning their own actions.
While local treatment facilities have improved significantly, Dr. Cross indicated that a gap still exists in the diagnosis and treatment of all cases, with approximately 15 percent of cases potentially remaining undiagnosed. She emphasized that enhancing awareness and education is vital, as some children could suffer or die from unknown causes.
Through the Twinning Program, Dr. Cross and her team work not only to establish treatment protocols but also to conduct educational sessions for medical staff in Fiji, including those at CWMH and Aspen Lautoka, while also engaging with community projects like WOWS Kids Fiji. This collaborative approach aims to demystify cancer, educate families about its nature, and encourage early detection and treatment.