Leukaemia Now Makes Up 25% of Childhood Cancers in Ghana
Leukaemia now accounts for 25% of childhood cancers Leukaemia now makes up about a quarter of all childhood cancers in Ghana, according to clinical haematologist Dr. Eugene Tettey, who says the numbers have risen sharply in recent years and now surpass most other childhood cancers. Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Monday, he explained that leukaemias account for roughly 25% of all childhood cancers, highlighting the scale of the problem. His remarks follow a JoyNews Special Assignment documentary that revealed the challenges faced by leukaemia patients, including life-threatening delays due to the absence of local bone marrow transplant facilities, forcing families to seek costly treatment abroad. The investigation showed that timely access to specialised care is critical for survival, and families described the emotional and financial strain of seeking treatment outside Ghana. Dr. Tettey’s warning underscores the urgent need to strengthen local cancer care infrastructure, improve early diagnosis, provide specialised treatment, and invest in long-term capacity to address the growing burden of childhood leukaemia.
