The Unseen Battle: Childhood Cancer in India

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Cancer, a term that sends chills down the spine, is unfortunately not just an adult disease. It also affects children and has become a significant health concern in India.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), about 45,000 children between 0-14 years are diagnosed with cancer each year.

Common Types of Childhood Cancers

There are several types of childhood cancers prevalent in India. The most common type is leukaemia, which accounts for about one-third of all pediatric cancers.

Other frequent types include brain tumours and neuroblastomas, followed by Wilms' tumour (a kidney cancer) and retinoblastoma (an eye cancer). Each type presents different causes and symptoms.

Causes & Risk Factors for Childhood Cancer

The exact cause behind most childhood cancers remains unknown; however, some factors increase the risk.

• Genetic predisposition plays a crucial role, especially for diseases like retinoblastoma or neurofibromatosis.
• Exposure to radiation, certain chemicals or infections during pregnancy can also contribute to the development of pediatric malignancies.

Symptoms Associated with Pediatric Malignancies

Symptoms vary widely based on the type and location of cancer. However, some common signs include;

• persistent fever or illness without apparent cause;
• unexplained weight loss;
• frequent headaches often with vomiting;
• constant fatigue or noticeable paleness;
• bruising easily;
• ongoing pain in one area like bones or joints etc.,

These symptoms are often mistaken as normal illnesses which leads to delayed diagnosis.

Importance Of Early Diagnosis And Treatment

Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Parents should be aware of potential warning signs so they can seek medical advice promptly if any suspicious symptom arises.

Once diagnosed, treatment typically involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery or stem cell transplant depending upon severity & stage.