CANSA brings cancer support straight to your phone with new WhatsApp channel

The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) has embraced the digital age in style, launching its brand-new WhatsApp Channel. In a country where mobile phones are king, this new platform is set to bring credible, life-saving cancer information right into the palms of South Africans.

According to the 2023 General Household Survey (GHS), a whopping 91.2% of South African households use cellular phones exclusively, and 98.7% of internet users access the web via mobile phones, with the majority doing so on smartphones. That’s why this move makes perfect sense, in a world where our phones are never far from our hands, CANSA is meeting South Africans where they are.

Not your average 94-year-old

“There’s nothing old-fashioned about CANSA when it comes to communication,” says Lucy Balona, CANSA’s spokesperson. “With most South Africans using WhatsApp daily, this channel is an easy and familiar way for people to access vital cancer-related information, updates, and support.”

Launched internally to employees and volunteers earlier this year, the WhatsApp Channel is now open to the public and it’s already gaining fans fast. It’s designed as a trusted space where anyone affected by cancer (whether they’re patients, survivors, caregivers, medical professionals or just looking to stay informed) can engage with CANSA’s work and find credible information.

What’s in it for you?

Following CANSA’s WhatsApp Channel means you’ll get:

• Expert insights: short videos and voice notes that break down important topics
• Real-time updates on CANSA events, services and health campaigns
• Patient support messages and thank-yous for donors
• Volunteer calls to action and coordination
• Quick facts and info bursts on key cancer-related topics

“We’ve created a space where everyone can access updates and reliable content,” adds Balona. “It helps us raise awareness of our services, share stories of hope, and cut through the noise of misinformation with research-backed information.”

Why This Matters

CANSA isn’t just about awareness — the organisation provides a wide range of services, including:

• Cancer risk reduction and health education
• Early detection through cancer screening
• Stoma support, home-based care, medical equipment hire
• Psycho-social support, including free Tele Counselling in nine languages
• Accommodation at seven CANSA Care Homes and CANSA-TLC facilities during treatment

“With this WhatsApp Channel, we’re bringing our support, knowledge and care right into your hands — literally,” says Balona.

How to Join the CANSA WhatsApp Channel

Tap this link on your phone: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAWtQv2P59ipVaysk2Q

Once you’re in:

1. The CANSA Channel will open in WhatsApp on your phone.
2. Tap Follow to start receiving updates.
3. Notifications are muted by default, but you can tap the bell icon at the top right if you’d like to be notified when there’s something new.
4. Feel free to spread the word — just tap the chain link icon to share the channel with friends and family.

So go on — stay connected, stay informed, and help CANSA make a difference, one WhatsApp update at a time.