Understanding Childhood Cancer: Signs, Symptoms, and Early Detection

Dr.Arun Giri, 3 mins read

In India, approximately 40,000 to 50,000 people are diagnosed with brain tumours each year, with children accounting for 20% of these cases. The average survival rate for patients with malignant brain tumours is just 34.4%. Childhood cancer refers to a group of cancers that affect individuals aged 0–19 years.
This condition significantly impacts the quality of life for both patients and their families. It should be addressed as a critical public health issue in both private and public healthcare systems. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for improving cure rates and survival outcomes.

Childhood cancers are broadly categorised into three groups:

• Leukaemias and Lymphomas

Leukaemias are the most common childhood cancer. The two main types of leukaemia generally seen in children and teenagers are:

• Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL): Affects blood and bone marrow, compromising infection-fighting cells.
• Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML): Affects blood cells and platelets.

Lymphomas are cancers in your child’s lymphatic system. There are two lymphoma classes:

• Hodgkin Lymphoma: Common in teenagers; subtypes include Nodular Sclerosis and Mixed Cellularity.
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Includes types like Burkitt and Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphomas.

Brain Tumours:

Brain tumours are the most common cancer affecting children and teenagers. Brain tumours can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Solid Tumours: Includes cancers such as

• Neuroblastoma
• Wilms Tumour
• Retinoblastoma
• Bone cancers (e.g., Osteosarcoma, Ewing Sarcoma)
• Rhabdomyosarcoma

Diagnosis:

Consult a doctor if your child exhibits persistent unusual signs or symptoms, such as:

• Prolonged fever or frequent infections
• Unexplained weight loss
• Unusual lumps or swelling
• Persistent fatigue or pale appearance
• Easy bleeding
• Ongoing pain in one area of the body
• Persistent headaches, often with vomiting
• Sudden changes in vision or eye appearance
• Difficulty walking or limb weakness

Many of these symptoms are more likely to be caused by some other reasons, such as an injury or infection. But do consult your doctor if your child has any of these symptoms, so that the cause can be found and treated.

The doctor will do an initial examination in which he will take the child’s medical history and symptoms. If any symptoms are found, he may ask for some tests, like X-rays and blood tests. He may refer you to a specialist for detailed evaluation if cancer is suspected. In case, if a tumour is detected, a sample may be taken for microscopic analysis.

Importance of Early Detection

Early diagnosis leads to timely treatment and better outcomes. Strategies for early detection include:

• Risk-based screening programs.
• Educational campaigns to improve awareness.
• Reduction in delays during the diagnosis and treatment continuum.

Although childhood cancers are rare, recognizing early warning signs and seeking prompt medical advice can save the child’s life. Public awareness and improved healthcare interventions are essential to combat childhood cancer effectively.