Advocacy Archives - CANSA - The Cancer Association of South Africa | CANSA

World Lymphoma Awareness Day: No One Should have to Navigate Lymphoma Alone

This World Lymphoma Awareness Day, observed annually on 15 September, the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) is joining the global call to ensure that no person affected by lymphoma has to navigate their diagnosis, treatment and recovery alone. Patient navigation, practical support and early diagnosis are CANSA’s focus as South Africa joins the global lymphoma awareness campaign on 15 September 2026…

Published: 11 September 2026
Updated: 11 September 2026
Categories: Advocacy, CANSA Highlights, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Men's Health, Types of cancer, Women's Health

Webinar SANCD Alliance – Patient Perspective – 9 September 2026

You are invited to attend an SANCD Alliance webinar hosted by the Heart and Stroke Foundation. CANSA is a member of the SANCD Alliance. Topic: Patient Perspective…

Published: 9 September 2026
Updated: 11 September 2026
Categories: Advocacy, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health

CANSA Surrounds Young Cancer Patients with Hope, Dignity and Care

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and CANSA continues to provide comprehensive support for young patients and families. From treatment devices, accommodation during treatment, to adolescent-friendly rooms, palliative care and community education, CANSA’s Tough Living with CANSA (TLC) programme helps children, young people and families cope with a cancer diagnosis and treatment…

Published: 31 August 2026
Updated: 31 August 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Advocacy, CANSA Highlights, CANSA's Tough Living with Cancer (TLC) Programme, Media Releases & News, Types of cancer

South African Cancer Researchers Unite to Turn Knowledge into Impact

Leading cancer researchers, clinicians, academics, healthcare professionals and advocates gathered in Cape Town, hosted by CANSA; to examine how South African cancer research can contribute to improved cancer outcomes. CANSA Chief Executive Officer Elize Joubert said locally relevant research was essential to addressing the country’s cancer burden. “Cancer research must ultimately improve people’s lives. By supporting high-quality South African research, we can strengthen risk-reduction, encourage earlier diagnosis, improve treatment and care, and contribute to health policies and services that respond to the realities experienced by people in our communities.”

Published: 14 August 2026
Updated: 18 August 2026
Categories: Advocacy, CANSA - Who We Are, CANSA Highlights, CANSA Research, Notice Board

Breaking the Silence on Vulval Cancer

As part of Women’s Month, CANSA encourages women to pay attention to changes in the external genital area, known medically as the vulva, and to seek medical advice without shame or delay. CANSA’s ‘Know Your Vulva, Know When to Ask’ campaign aims to give women the language and confidence to talk about symptoms affecting this part of the body…

Published: 5 August 2026
Updated: 7 August 2026
Categories: Advocacy, CANSA Highlights, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Types of cancer, Women's Health

CANSA Highlights Human Rights and Cancer in the Workplace

As South Africa marks Workers’ Day, CANSA is encouraging employers, managers, HR teams, employees, and caregivers to recognise that cancer in the workplace is not only a health issue, but also a matter of fairness and practical support.

Published: 2 July 2026
Updated: 3 July 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Advocacy, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA Highlights, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Men's Health, Women's Health, Work and Cancer

Is Vaping Safer than Smoking? Why this May Not be the Case…

It makes sense that vaping is seen as the so-called healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes, as vaping may reduce exposure to some of the toxic by-products of burning tobacco. However, vaping introduces its own mix of chemicals, ultra-fine particles, and nicotine delivery systems that affect the lungs, heart, and brain in ways researchers are still trying to fully understand. Health experts are also wary of how vaping products are marketed. While they’re often presented as a “safer” option, current research links vaping to lung irritation, cardiovascular strain, chest pain, oral health issues, and exposure to chemicals associated with cancer risk…

Published: 26 May 2026
Updated: 2 July 2026
Categories: Advocacy, CANSA on the Move for the Youth, Men's Health, No-Tobacco Campaign, Women's Health

CANSA Marks Cancer Survivors’ Month by Focusing on Life Beyond Treatment

June is recognised globally as International Cancer Survivors Month which provides the opportunity to recognise cancer survivors living in South Africa and to highlight the often-overlooked emotional, physical, financial and practical realities that can continue long after diagnosis and treatment. For many people, the end of active treatment is not the end of the impact that cancer has had on their lives. Survivors may continue to live with fatigue, anxiety, fear of recurrence, body image changes, relationship strain, financial pressure, workplace challenges, long-term side effects and the emotional impact of having faced a life-threatening illness. This is why survivor support must be seen as an essential part of cancer care…

Podcast: On the CANSA Couch – Healthy Choices, Trusted Partnerships & Smarter Eating

For this podcast we are joined by one of CANSA’s longest-standing partners, Southern Oil, the manufacturers of the B-well range — a brand many South Africans know and trust. B-well is the first mayonnaise range to receive the CANSA Smart Choice Seal in the edible category. The endorsement applies to B-Well Original Tangy Canola Mayonnaise and B-Well Thick & Creamy Canola Mayonnaise. The products are manufactured by Southern Oil, a 30-year strong South African producer of canola and other plant-based oils, under its B-Well brand. This expands the range of B-Well products already carrying the CANSA Smart Choice Seal, which includes several canola seed oils and cooking sprays. We discuss how can products like B-well oils and mayonnaise be used in simple, everyday meals…

Human Rights and Cancer in the Workplace

A cancer diagnosis impacts far more than physical health—it can affect a person’s dignity, livelihood, financial stability, family life, and sense of self. In this context, workplaces play a crucial role: they can either foster support and healing or, unintentionally, contribute to additional challenges.

CANSA has developed this guide to assist both employers and employees in navigating cancer in the workplace with empathy, fairness, and a strong commitment to human rights.

Published: 28 April 2026
Updated: 12 May 2026
Categories: Advocacy

CANSA Information and Support Desks

Trained CANSA volunteers provide information to cancer patients at government hospitals through the CANSA Information and Support Desks service, once per week, to help them cope with the physical and emotional demands of cancer treatment. Depending on their needs patients, caregivers and loved ones are referred to CANSA’s free support groups, and Tele / Virtual […]

Published: 22 April 2026
Updated: 22 June 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, About Cancer, Advocacy, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health

Global Brands Magazine Declares CANSA Winner of 2026 Award

The Global Brands Magazine team congratulates the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) on winning the prestigious title ‘Excellence in Cancer Support Services, South Africa – 2026’. CANSA was awarded this honour for their exceptional commitment to Innovation, Quality, Branding Activities, customer Service & Performance providing a robust system in the South Africa region…

Published: 21 April 2026
Updated: 2 July 2026
Categories: Advocacy, CANSA - Who We Are

Survey – How Well Do You Know the CANSA Seal of Recognition (CSOR) Programme?

SURVEY – How well do you know the CANSA Seal of Recognition Programme? Help improve the CANSA Seal of Recognition programme by completing our quick survey…

Takealot Turns its Packages into a Life-saving Reminder with CANSA Partnership

This April, for Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, Takealot has partnered with CANSA to transform the nation’s favourite delivery experience into a life-saving reminder. The “Check Your Package” campaign will see thousands of specially modified Takealot boxes delivered with a small, strategically placed lump designed to disrupt the unboxing moment and prompt men to perform testicular self-checks…

Published: 7 April 2026
Updated: 2 July 2026
Categories: Advocacy, CANSA on the Move for the Youth, Media Releases & News, Men's Health, Types of cancer

B-Well Mayonnaise is the First to Qualify for the CANSA Smart Choice Seal

As the world marks World Health Day on 7 April, CANSA highlights the importance of making healthier everyday choices by announcing that two B-Well-branded mayonnaise products have earned the CANSA Smart Choice Seal of Recognition. This milestone marks the first time a mayonnaise range has qualified for the Seal, reinforcing the role that informed food choices can play in supporting overall health and reducing cancer risk…

Published: 26 March 2026
Updated: 22 April 2026
Categories: Advocacy, Balanced Lifestyle, CANSA Seal of Recognition - Edible Consumer Goods Category, Dietary Tips, Media Releases & News

On the CANSA Couch Podcast: Celebrating 95 Years of CANSA – a Legacy of Hope, a Future of Impact

The year 2026 heralds a remarkable milestone as the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), celebrates 95 years of service, support and unwavering commitment in the fight against cancer. To commemorate this milestone, On the CANSA Couch hosts Megan and Kudzai, sit down with CANSA CEO, Elize Joubert, for a special episode that reflects on the organisation’s journey, celebrates its impact, and looks ahead to the future. Join us for this special anniversary episode of On the CANSA Couch and be part of the journey…

Participate in 2026 Global Patient Survey on Lymphomas & Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

DEADLINE: 31 March 2026 – Your participation counts – once South Africa reaches 100 responses, CANSA will receive country-specific reports. These reports are valuable tools that can be used for local planning, helping ensure local programmes and activities reflect patients’ real needs. They also strengthen advocacy efforts and provide credible evidence for conversations with healthcare professionals, policymakers, and partners – help us reach 100 or more responses!

Published: 19 March 2026
Updated: 31 March 2026
Categories: Advocacy, Men's Health, Types of cancer, Women's Health

Patient Care – Resources

These resources have been developed to support patients and caregivers with practical guidance, information, and tools to manage cancer care and improve wellbeing. They provide insights into coping strategies, nutrition, and everyday care while undergoing treatment. Cancer Patients & Hair Loss Read the Article: Compassionhat Partners with CANSALearn how Compassionhat collaborates with CANSA to support […]

Published: 11 March 2026
Categories: CANSA Seal of Recognition - Patient Care, CANSA's Seal of Recognition

Resources for Healthier Eating & Cancer Risk Reduction

These resources have been developed in collaboration with CANSA and selected Edible Consumer Goods partners to provide practical guidance on healthier cooking, informed food choices, and cancer risk reduction. View products in our Edible Consumer Goods category that meet CANSA’s health-focused standards and support healthier eating. Lifestyle Guides & Booklets Caring Beyond the Plate: A […]

Published: 5 February 2026
Updated: 31 March 2026
Categories: CANSA Seal of Recognition - Edible Consumer Goods Category, CANSA's Seal of Recognition

On the CANSA Couch: Be Sunsmart – Protect Your Skin at Every Age

In this episode of On the CANSA Couch, hosts Megan and Kudzai shine a spotlight on the importance of being Sunsmart – a simple but powerful way to reduce the risk of skin cancer.

They’re joined by Dr Donny Fick, a Johannesburg-based general practitioner, avid runner, and passionate advocate for skin cancer awareness. Drawing on his experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery, media medicine, and everyday general practice, Dr Fick unpacks why skin cancer remains one of the most preventable cancers – yet continues to affect thousands of South Africans, particularly older adults.

Published: 18 December 2025
Updated: 26 May 2026
Categories: CANSA's Seal of Recognition, On the CANSA Couch Podcasts, Reduce Cancer Risk, SunSmart

CANSA CEO Represents South Africa on the Global Stage at the UICC World Cancer Leaders’ Summit 2025

We are proud to share that our CEO, Elize Joubert, was invited to attend the prestigious UICC World Cancer Leaders’ Summit 2025, held on 19–20 November. As part of the main programme, Elize was selected to serve as a Table Host, moderating a series of interactive discussions designed to foster global reflection, knowledge exchange, and collaborative action in cancer control.

Published: 12 December 2025
Categories: Advocacy, CANSA - Who We Are

Advocacy

World Lymphoma Awareness Day: No One Should have to Navigate Lymphoma Alone

Webinar SANCD Alliance – Patient Perspective – 9 September 2026

CANSA Surrounds Young Cancer Patients with Hope, Dignity and Care

South African Cancer Researchers Unite to Turn Knowledge into Impact

Breaking the Silence on Vulval Cancer

CANSA Highlights Human Rights and Cancer in the Workplace

Is Vaping Safer than Smoking? Why this May Not be the Case…

CANSA Marks Cancer Survivors’ Month by Focusing on Life Beyond Treatment

Podcast: On the CANSA Couch – Healthy Choices, Trusted Partnerships & Smarter Eating

Human Rights and Cancer in the Workplace

CANSA Information and Support Desks

Global Brands Magazine Declares CANSA Winner of 2026 Award

Survey – How Well Do You Know the CANSA Seal of Recognition (CSOR) Programme?

Takealot Turns its Packages into a Life-saving Reminder with CANSA Partnership

B-Well Mayonnaise is the First to Qualify for the CANSA Smart Choice Seal

On the CANSA Couch Podcast: Celebrating 95 Years of CANSA – a Legacy of Hope, a Future of Impact

Participate in 2026 Global Patient Survey on Lymphomas & Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

Patient Care – Resources

Resources for Healthier Eating & Cancer Risk Reduction

On the CANSA Couch: Be Sunsmart – Protect Your Skin at Every Age

CANSA CEO Represents South Africa on the Global Stage at the UICC World Cancer Leaders’ Summit 2025

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