Quintana Roo to Ramp Up Childhood Cancer Awareness in September

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Health officials and advocates in Quintana Roo are strengthening public awareness efforts for childhood cancer throughout September, a month dedicated to promoting early detection and raising funds to support children battling the disease.

Daniela Závala González, communications coordinator for the Mexican Association for Help to Children with Cancer (AMANC) in Cancún, noted that September holds special significance beyond Mexico’s Independence Day celebrations.

“September is not only the patriotic month but also the month for childhood cancer awareness,” she said. “Just as October has the pink ribbon for breast cancer and November has the blue ribbon for prostate cancer, September is the gold ribbon.”

On early detection, Závala stressed that parents and guardians recognizing symptoms can mean the difference between a successful treatment and a fatal outcome. She said current campaigns aim to foster a preventive health culture, helping families identify warning signs before the disease reaches critical stages, even though some symptoms may be confused with common illnesses such as dengue.

As part of the “Golden September” campaign, starting Sept. 18 — after Independence Day festivities conclude — emblematic locations including the Cancún International Airport and possibly the Municipal Palace will be illuminated in gold.

“This symbolic action will be complemented by permanent gold ribbons in several hospitals, laboratories, and companies that have joined as strategic allies in spreading the prevention message,” Závala said. “Childhood cancer, when detected early, has an 80 percent chance of overcoming the disease.”

In an effort to boost visibility and funding, AMANC has partnered with local restaurants this year to sell discount coupons for 99 pesos each. The vouchers can be purchased directly from the association or by calling 9982953564 and 9981925841. They offer a meal that would typically cost more, encouraging public participation.

The association has set a goal of selling at least 500 tickets throughout the month. The coupons are redeemable Monday through Sunday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. for dine-in service, with options including a hamburger, mixed salad, or Alfredo pasta.

So far in 2026, AMANC has recorded 13 new admissions — 12 from Cancún and one from Chetumal — bringing the total number of children under its care to 98.