Gold September: Month-long programme shines a light on childhood cancer awareness support

September marks a crucial time for raising awareness about childhood cancer, a disease that affects thousands of children and families across Europe.

Did you know that every year in Europe, 35,000 new cases of childhood cancer are diagnosed, and over 6,000 young lives are lost? Another major challenge we face in this sensitive area is the disparity in survival rates between European regions, with differences of up to 20% due to unequal access to the best standard of care and research. It is vital that we address these inequalities to improve outcomes for all children with cancer.

These figures highlight the urgent need for continued advocacy, research and support. Raising awareness during 'Gold' September - Childhood Cancer Awareness Month - can make a real difference and help create a brighter future for children and young people with cancer.

To celebrate Gold September, the European Society for Paediatric Oncology (SIOPE) is organising a month of events and initiatives to raise awareness about this critical issue. SIOPE, based in Brussels, represents all professionals working in the field of paediatric oncology and is dedicated to promoting initiatives that support the cure of childhood cancer.

To kick off this important month, Manneken Pis once again dons his paediatric oncologist costume on 6 September. This cherished tradition not only emphasises our work on the field of paediatric oncology, but also highlights the importance of SIOPE's collective efforts.

In addition, the importance of Gold September this year is heightened by the recent EU elections to the European Parliament. SIOPE is taking this opportunity to ensure that childhood cancer remains a priority on the EU agenda for the 2024-2029 term. On 24 September, SIOPE will host a virtual policy event in partnership with Childhood Cancer International Europe (CCI-E), hosted by MEP Loucas Fourlas. This event will highlight the urgent need for action and the hope that EU decision-makers will keep these issues as a priority in the next five-year mandate.

Especially during this month, but also throughout the year, we invite you to join us and all SIOPE members in honoring children and young people with cancer, their families and caregivers, healthcare professionals, survivors and the scientists dedicated to fighting this disease.

By raising awareness during Gold September - Childhood Cancer Awareness Month - you can help make a real difference and work towards a brighter future for children and young people with cancer.

For more information on how you can get involved, please visit the SIOPE website.

Photos: ©SIOPE