Emplify Health by Gundersen Promotes Childhood Cancer Awareness

September marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the realities of childhood cancer and its impact on families. Emplify Health by Gundersen is actively participating in this national effort to highlight the challenges faced by children diagnosed with these diseases and the significant advancements in treatment that are improving survival rates.

Childhood cancer continues to be a pressing health issue, affecting approximately 15,780 children under the age of 19 each year in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. Among the various types of childhood cancer, leukemia is the most common, accounting for nearly 30% of all cases, as reported by the National Cancer Institute. Fortunately, ongoing advancements in treatment have increased the overall survival rate for childhood cancer to around 84%, a remarkable improvement compared to previous decades, according to the Children’s Oncology Group.

Supporting Families with Expert Care

Dr. Antoinette Peters, a pediatric oncologist at Emplify Health by Gundersen, emphasizes the importance of receiving care locally. “When a child is diagnosed with cancer, families face many challenges. Receiving care near home allows children to maintain a sense of normalcy, stay connected with their support systems, and reduces the stress of travel during treatment,” she states. Dr. Peters further underscores the organization’s commitment to providing comprehensive, compassionate care that adheres to the highest standards within local communities.

Dr. Jennifer Orozco, another pediatric oncologist at Emplify Health by Gundersen, highlights the role of standardized treatment protocols in improving patient outcomes. “One of the strengths in pediatric oncology is the use of standardized treatment guidelines,” she explains. “No matter where a child receives care, these strict protocols ensure that every patient benefits from the latest research and best practices. This standardization helps improve outcomes and provides families with confidence in the care their child is receiving.”

The Importance of Early Detection and Research

The fight against childhood cancer relies heavily on early detection, timely treatment, and continuous research. Emplify Health by Gundersen is dedicated to supporting families through expert care, education, and advocacy, ensuring that every child has access to optimal treatment options close to home.

For more information about childhood cancer and the resources available through Emplify Health by Gundersen, visit gundersenhealth.org/services/cancer-blood-disorders-hematology. This initiative not only aims to educate the public but also to foster hope for families navigating the challenges of childhood cancer.