Cancer Association of South Africa

The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) is a community-driven and volunteer-based organization that has been fighting cancer to save lives for the past 77 years. Started in 1931 by a group of medical professional concerned about the high incidence of cancer, CANSA has grown to become one of the leading cancer NGOs in the country with 45 offices around the country and more than 12 000 volunteers and 260 staff members. With 7 provincial offices and 32 regional offices around the country, CANSA has the infrastructure to reach many South Africans in all communities. The association’s mission is to substantially reduce the impact of cancer by promoting health in all communities within South Africa, through advocacy and the sustainable facilitation of research, prevention, early detection and care. CANSA offers the following comprehensive support programs for child and adult clients and their families in all South African communities: counseling/support groups, interim homes/day-care centers, assistive devices, and home-based care. Some of CANSA’s programs are directly linked to monthly health campaigns. Preventative health services also include the CANSA Healthy Living Schools Programme also known as the Toktokkie/Tap-tap show.