Cancer is a challenging diagnosis for anyone, but it can be more devastating when it affects children.
While childhood cancers are relatively rare compared to adult cancers, they remain a leading cause of disease-related death among young people.
This article explores the most common types of cancers in children, how families can adopt preventive measures, and the available treatments that offer hope.
Let us look at these common types of cancers in children.
Leukemia
Leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, is the most prevalent cancer in children. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are the primary subtypes. Symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, fever, easy bruising, and frequent infections.
Brain and spinal cord tumors
These tumors are the second most common type of childhood cancer. They can develop in various parts of the brain or spinal cord, with symptoms ranging from persistent headaches and nausea to balance issues and seizures.
Neuroblastoma
Neuroblastoma typically arises in the adrenal glands or along the spine. It most often affects children under five. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, lumps in the abdomen, and changes in bowel or bladder function.
Wilms Tumor
Wilms tumor is a kidney cancer that primarily affects children under six. It often presents as a painless abdominal mass, but some children may experience pain, fever, or blood in the urine.
Lymphomas
Lymphomas, which begin in the immune system, include Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Symptoms may involve swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss.
Can childhood cancer be prevented?
While the exact causes of most childhood cancers remain unknown, certain steps can help reduce risk factors and promote overall health:
Avoid environmental toxins: Limiting exposure to harmful chemicals, such as pesticides and tobacco smoke, can reduce risks.
Secondly, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports a healthy immune system.
In addition, regular exercise fosters overall well-being and reduces the likelihood of obesity, a risk factor for some cancers.
Meanwhile, for families with a history of cancer, genetic counselling can help assess risks and guide early detection strategies.
Treatment options for childhood cancers
Advances in medical research have improved the prognosis for many children with cancer. Treatment plans are tailored to the specific type and stage of cancer, as well as the child’s overall health.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells or stop them from growing. It’s a common treatment for leukemia and other cancers that affect multiple body parts.
Surgery
Surgery aims to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue. For solid tumors like Wilms tumor or neuroblastoma, this can be a primary treatment.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy targets cancer cells with high-energy beams. It’s often used for brain tumors or in combination with other treatments.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy enhances the body’s immune system to fight cancer more effectively. This innovative treatment is gaining traction in pediatric oncology.
Stem cell transplants
Stem cell transplants replace damaged bone marrow with healthy cells. This is particularly useful for certain leukemias and lymphomas.
