While there are more than 200 different types of cancers, some are more prevalent in younger age groups. When compared to adult cancers, childhood cancers manifest in unique ways. These are often caused by cellular genetic changes that occur during early development in children. More than 80% of children diagnosed with cancer now have a five-year survival 80% or above, all because of significant advancements in pediatric cancer care.
Detecting cancer in children can be challenging, as the early warning symptoms often go unnoticed as common diseases or ordinary injuries. Understand the types and warning signs of the common childhood cancers. Also, learn how to spot them early for timely care and the best outcomes in the following article.
The cancers that manifest in children, known as "pediatric cancers," are often distinct from those that manifest in adults. Treatment typically has a more favorable effect on children than adults. Cancers such as leukemia, neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, retinoblastoma, lymphoma, Wilms tumor, and bone cancer are more prevalent in children.
It doesn't matter how old a person is; cancer may still strike any area of their body. It all starts with a DNA mutation in a single cell, which, if unchecked, can develop into a tumor. This can spread to other organs and ultimately risk the child's life. Unlike adult cancers, the causes of most childhood cancers are unclear. Numerous studies have explored the causes of childhood cancer; however, only a small proportion of cases are linked to environmental lifestyle factors or some genetic syndromes.
Cancer prevention measures in children should center on behaviors that can protect the child from acquiring preventable cancer as an adult. Recently, research has shown that genetic factors may account for almost 10% of all childhood cancers. The research is still ongoing to determine exactly which factors influence the development of cancer in children.
The following are the prevalent types of pediatric cancers:
| Cancer Type | Subtypes | Description |
| Leukemias and Lymphomas | Leukemia • Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) • Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) |
Blood cancers that originate in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. Leukemia is the most common childhood cancer, leading to the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells. |
| Lymphoma • Hodgkin lymphoma • Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (Burkitt lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, anaplastic large-cell lymphoma, lymphoblastic lymphoma) |
Cancers that begin in the lymphatic system, affecting lymph nodes and other lymph-forming tissues. Lymphoma is the third most common childhood cancer. | |
| Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors | • Medulloblastoma • Glioma • Choroid plexus carcinoma • Embryonal tumors • Ganglioglioma • Pineoblastoma • Ependymoma |
Tumors that arise from cells of the central nervous system. These cancers occur when normal brain or spinal cord cells grow uncontrollably and form tumors. |
| Solid Tumors | • Wilms tumor • Neuroblastoma • Retinoblastoma • Hepatoblastoma • Bone cancers (osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma) • Germ cell tumors • Rhabdomyosarcoma |
Cancers that form solid masses in different parts of the body, such as bones, organs, muscles, or soft tissues, due to uncontrolled cell growth. |
The signs and symptoms of pediatric cancer might mimic those of other common childhood diseases. The majority of children suffer from common medical conditions, including headaches, stomachaches, and minor injuries that do not indicate cancer. But you should still consult your child's doctor about any persistent or worsening symptoms. The following are the possible symptoms of childhood cancer:
| Acronym | Symptom |
| C | Continued, unexplained weight loss |
| H | Early-morning headaches with vomiting |
| I | Persistent pain |
| L | Lump or mass |
| D | Development of bruising, bleeding, or rash |
| C | Constant or frequent infections, not responding to antibiotics |
| A | Abnormal eye appearance (Leucocoria or Prophosis) |
| N | Nausea or vomiting |
| C | Constant tiredness or pallor |
| E | Eye or vision changes |
| R | Recurring or persistent fever |
The following tests help in establishing the pediatric cancer diagnosis:
The following are the treatment options that help manage pediatric cancers:
| Treatment Type | Description |
| Chemotherapy | The most common treatment for childhood cancers. It uses drugs to kill cancer cells and is given in cycles that include treatment days followed by recovery periods. |
| Radiation Therapy | Uses high-energy radiation from a machine or an implanted device to shrink or destroy tumors. |
| Stem Cell Transplant | Often used for leukemia or lymphoma. High-dose chemotherapy is first given to destroy cancer cells, followed by an infusion of healthy blood-forming stem cells from a donor. |
| Surgery | Used to remove solid tumors. In some cases, tumors can be completely removed; in others, surgery is combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy. |
| Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy | Immunotherapy boosts the immune system’s ability to fight cancer, while targeted therapy attacks specific weaknesses in cancer cells linked to gene mutations. These newer treatments may be available through clinical trials. |
One of the most difficult things a parent or caregiver may go through is hearing that their child has cancer. In the blink of an eye, your life and your child's life turn upside down irrevocably. It can be a challenging and terrifying condition. You may come across an abundance of knowledge in a relatively short time. It can be helpful, but it can also create a lot of confusion. Dealing with your child's new cancer diagnosis can be difficult, but the right care can make it a bit easier.
Get the right advice from the top pediatric oncologists at the BMCHRC Hospital.
Q1: Does cancer treatment affect a child’s long-term health?
A: Some cancer treatments may cause late effects, making long-term follow-up care essential to monitor growth, development, and overall health.
Q2: Why is early diagnosis important in managing pediatric cancer?
A: Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment, reduces complications, and significantly improves survival outcomes.
Q3: When should parents consult a pediatric oncologist?
A: Parents should seek specialist care if a child has persistent or unexplained symptoms or if cancer is suspected based on clinical evaluation.
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