What is Pediatric Cancer?
Pediatric cancer refers to a group of cancers that occur in children and adolescents. Unlike adult cancers, pediatric cancers often result from DNA changes early in life or even before birth. Common types include leukemia, brain tumors, neuroblastoma, and lymphoma.
How Common is Pediatric Cancer?
Pediatric cancer is relatively rare but remains the leading cause of disease-related death among children. In the United States, approximately 15,000 children are diagnosed with cancer annually. Despite its rarity, the impact on affected families and communities is profound.
What are the Common Symptoms?
Symptoms of pediatric cancer can vary widely depending on the type and location of the cancer. Common signs include unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, fatigue, pain, lumps or swelling, easy bruising or bleeding, and frequent infections. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
What are the Main Types of Pediatric Cancer?
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Leukemia: The most common type, accounting for about 30% of all pediatric cancers.
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Brain and Central Nervous System Tumors: The second most common, including gliomas and medulloblastomas.
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Neuroblastoma: A cancer that starts in immature nerve cells, typically affects infants and young children.
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Wilms Tumor: A kidney cancer that primarily affects children ages 3 to 4.
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Lymphomas: Includes both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, affecting the lymphatic system.
What are the Risk Factors?
The exact cause of most pediatric cancers is unknown, but certain genetic conditions and environmental exposures may increase risk. For example, children with Down syndrome have a higher risk of developing leukemia. Family history and exposure to radiation or certain chemicals can also play a role.
How is Pediatric Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examinations, blood tests, imaging studies (such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans), and biopsy of the suspected tumor. Early detection and accurate diagnosis are key to effective treatment.
What Treatment Options are Available?
Treatment varies depending on the type and stage of cancer but often includes a combination of
surgery,
chemotherapy, and
radiation therapy.
Targeted therapy and
immunotherapy are emerging treatments that show promise. Bone marrow or stem cell transplants may be necessary for some types of cancer.
What are the Side Effects of Treatment?
Treatment can cause short-term and long-term side effects. Short-term effects include nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and increased susceptibility to infections. Long-term effects can range from growth and developmental delays to secondary cancers. Continuous follow-up care is essential to manage these effects.
How Important is Support for Families?
A diagnosis of pediatric cancer affects the entire family. Emotional, psychological, and financial support is crucial. Many hospitals offer comprehensive care teams, including
social workers,
psychologists, and
financial counselors to support families through the treatment journey.
What is the Prognosis for Children with Cancer?
The prognosis for pediatric cancer has improved significantly over the past few decades due to advances in treatment and supportive care. The 5-year survival rate for children with cancer is now about 80%. However, prognosis varies widely by cancer type and stage at diagnosis.
What is the Role of Pediatricians?
Pediatricians play a vital role in the early detection and ongoing care of children with cancer. They are often the first to identify symptoms and refer children to specialists. Pediatricians also provide continuous care, addressing the physical and emotional needs of the child and family throughout treatment and into survivorship.
