Childhood Cancers, CARE2CURE

Overview

What is childhood cancers?

Approximately 50,000 children are diagnosed with cancer in India every year. The most common types are leukemia (especially acute lymphoblastic leukemia), lymphomas, brain tumors, and kidney cancers. Unlike adult cancers, childhood cancers respond exceptionally well to treatment, over 70% of children diagnosed early can be cured. The challenge in India is access to timely diagnosis and quality care.

⚠ Risk Factors

Most childhood cancers have no identifiable cause
Genetic syndromes (Down syndrome, Li-Fraumeni, neurofibromatosis)
Family history (rare but relevant)
Previous radiation exposure
Certain infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus for some lymphomas)
Important: Parents rarely cause childhood cancer. Don't blame yourself.

🔍 Symptoms to Watch

Unexplained bruising, bleeding, or anemia
A new lump or swelling that doesn't reduce
Persistent fever without an obvious cause
Constant fatigue or paleness
Bone pain that wakes the child at night
Headaches with morning vomiting, balance issues, or vision changes
A white reflex in the eye (in photos with flash)
Unexplained weight loss
Abdominal swelling
Sudden behaviour changes or developmental regression

🩺 Screening & Detection

There is no routine screening for childhood cancers, they are too rare and varied.
Parental awareness is the most important tool. Notice changes early.
Regular paediatric check-ups can catch warning signs.
Early referral to a paediatric oncologist when symptoms persist saves lives.

🛡 Prevention

Most childhood cancers cannot be prevented, but early diagnosis improves survival dramatically.
Ensure children complete the standard vaccination schedule (Hepatitis B reduces liver cancer; HPV later reduces cervical/oral)
Avoid unnecessary radiation exposure (limit CT scans when not essential)
Maintain a healthy pregnancy, folic acid, avoid alcohol and tobacco
Breastfeed if possible (small protective effect against some childhood cancers)
Trust your instinct. If something feels wrong, see a paediatrician.

When should you see a doctor?

If your child has persistent unexplained symptoms, bruising, fever, fatigue, or lumps lasting more than 2 weeks, insist on further investigation. Many parents are told 'it's nothing' more than once before diagnosis. Trust your instincts. Treatment is most effective when started early.

Talk to Care2Cure →

A note: The information on this page is for awareness and education only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your health or any symptoms, please consult a qualified oncologist or your primary doctor. Care2Cure is happy to help you connect with a specialist, just email care2cureorg@gmail.com.