Facts about childhood cancer BraveKidsFightCancer from bravekidsfightcancer.org
Introduction
Cancer is a devastating disease that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. However, childhood cancer is a particularly challenging and heartbreaking diagnosis. According to the American Cancer Society, childhood cancer accounts for less than 1% of all new cancer cases, but it is the leading cause of death by disease in children under the age of 15. In this article, we will explore the most common childhood cancers, their symptoms, and the available treatment options.
Leukemia
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. It accounts for approximately 30% of all childhood cancers. The symptoms of leukemia can vary depending on the type, but common symptoms include fatigue, fever, bruising, and joint pain. Treatment for leukemia usually involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a bone marrow transplant.
Brain Tumors
Brain tumors are the second most common type of childhood cancer, accounting for around 25% of all cases. Symptoms can include headaches, vomiting, seizures, and difficulty walking or speaking. Treatment for brain tumors can include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Neuroblastoma
Neuroblastoma is a cancer that develops in nerve cells. It is the most common cancer in infants and accounts for around 6% of childhood cancers. Symptoms can include a lump or mass in the abdomen, bone pain, and weight loss. Treatment for neuroblastoma can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplant.
Wilms Tumor
Wilms tumor is a cancer that develops in the kidneys. It is most commonly diagnosed in children under the age of 5 and accounts for around 5% of all childhood cancers. Symptoms can include swelling or pain in the abdomen, fever, and blood in the urine. Treatment for Wilms tumor often involves surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Rhabdomyosarcoma
Rhabdomyosarcoma is a cancer that develops in muscle tissue. It is most commonly diagnosed in children under the age of 10 and accounts for around 3% of childhood cancers. Symptoms can include a lump or swelling in the arms or legs, or in the area around the eyes, nose, or throat. Treatment for rhabdomyosarcoma can include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Retinoblastoma
Retinoblastoma is a cancer that develops in the retina of the eye. It is most commonly diagnosed in children under the age of 5 and accounts for around 2% of childhood cancers. Symptoms can include a white reflection in the eye, crossed eyes, or a red or swollen eye. Treatment for retinoblastoma can include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma is a cancer that develops in the bones. It is most commonly diagnosed in teenagers and young adults and accounts for around 3% of childhood cancers. Symptoms can include bone pain, swelling, and tenderness. Treatment for osteosarcoma can include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
Hodgkin Lymphoma
Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer that develops in the lymphatic system. It is most commonly diagnosed in teenagers and young adults and accounts for around 2% of childhood cancers. Symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes, fever, and weight loss. Treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplant.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is another type of cancer that develops in the lymphatic system. It is most commonly diagnosed in children under the age of 10 and accounts for around 5% of childhood cancers. Symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes, fever, and weight loss. Treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma can include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplant.
Conclusion
Childhood cancer is a devastating diagnosis for any family to receive. However, early detection and treatment can greatly improve the chances of recovery. If your child is experiencing any of the symptoms outlined in this article, it is important to seek medical attention right away. With the right treatment and support, many children with cancer can go on to live healthy and fulfilling lives.
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