Cancer is a serious disease that is affecting many people worldwide. This disease can sometimes be fatal, and therefore, National Cancer Awareness Month is celebrated every year on November 7th to raise awareness about it.

Cancer exists in many forms, affecting anyone. This disease is now affecting children as well. Childhood and adolescent cancers are much less common than adult cancers, but awareness about them is still important. We spoke to Dr. Nagendra Sharma, Director of Medical Oncology at Max Hospital, Gurugram, about the symptoms and why they should not be ignored.

Causes of Cancer in Children
The doctor explained that while childhood cancers represent a very low percentage of total cancer cases in India, their young age and the prevalence of certain tumors have a profound impact. Childhood cancers are generally not lifestyle-related. They are caused by genetic changes that occur early in life, often without a clear cause.

Names of Common Cancers in Children

The most common cancers in children include leukemia, brain and spinal cord tumors, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, Wilms' tumor, and bone cancers such as osteosarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma.

Early Signs of Cancer in Children
Early detection of cancer in children remains a major challenge. Therefore, certain symptoms in children should never be ignored. Even though these symptoms may be due to common childhood illnesses, they are still important to monitor. These symptoms include:

Persistent fever
Fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Recurrent infections
Bone pain
Sudden vision changes
Lumps/swellings anywhere in the body

Children's Cancer Treatment
Over the past decade, cancer treatment in children has improved significantly due to advances in chemotherapy, targeted therapy, precision medicine, bone marrow transplantation, and improved surgical techniques. Parents, schools, and communities play a crucial role in raising awareness. Recognizing early warning signs, seeking timely medical advice, and dispelling myths about cancer can all contribute to its treatment.

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