Childhood cancer is uncommon
Childhood cancer is relatively uncommon compared with cancer in adults. However, it remains an important health concern because early recognition and appropriate care can make a difference.
UNDERSTANDING CHILDHOOD CANCER.
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. It is an opportunity to learn about childhood cancer, recognise possible warning signs and understand why timely medical assessment matters.
What Is Childhood Cancer?
Childhood cancer refers to cancers that develop in children and adolescents. Unlike many cancers in adults, childhood cancers are often not linked to lifestyle or environmental factors. They can affect different parts of the body, including the blood, brain, bones and other organs.
Symptoms can have many causes
Many possible warning signs of childhood cancer are also seen in common childhood illnesses. A symptom does not automatically mean that a child has cancer.
Possible Warning Signs
Parents and caregivers should pay attention to symptoms that are persistent, unexplained, unusual or worsening. Some possible warning signs include:
- Unexplained or persistent fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent tiredness or unusual paleness
- Easy bruising or unusual bleeding
- Persistent bone, joint or limb pain
- An unexplained swelling or growing lump
- Abdominal swelling or an unusual abdominal mass
- Persistent headaches, especially with vomiting
- Changes in vision or the appearance of the eye
- Persistent cough or difficulty breathing
Important:
These symptoms have many possible causes and do not necessarily mean
that a child has cancer. Persistent or concerning symptoms should be
assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Early diagnosis can help children receive appropriate treatment sooner. Recognising symptoms, seeking medical assessment and following through with recommended investigations are important steps when a child's health changes unexpectedly.
1
Recognise
Take note of symptoms or physical changes that are unusual, persistent or becoming worse.
2
Seek assessment
A healthcare professional can examine the child and decide whether further tests or referral are needed.
3
Follow through
If investigations or specialist review are recommended, completing the next steps can help avoid unnecessary delays.
How Is Childhood Cancer Diagnosed?
There is no single test used to diagnose every childhood cancer. Assessment depends on the child's symptoms and the suspected condition. A healthcare team may use a combination of:
- Medical history and physical examination
- Blood tests and other laboratory investigations
- Imaging tests where appropriate
- Specialist assessment
- Other investigations, including tissue or bone marrow testing, when clinically indicated
How Is Childhood Cancer Treated?
Treatment depends on the specific type of cancer, where it is located, how far it has developed and the child's individual circumstances. Children may receive one treatment or a combination of treatments.
Chemotherapy
Surgery
Radiotherapy
Immunotherapy
Stem cell transplant
Supportive care
When Should a Child Be Assessed?
Speak with a healthcare professional if a child develops symptoms that are persistent, unexplained, unusual or worsening, particularly when several concerning changes occur together.
Parents and caregivers should not try to diagnose cancer based on symptoms alone. Medical assessment is the appropriate way to determine what may be causing the changes.
- Keep track of symptoms and when they started.
- Explain any changes that concern you to the healthcare professional.
- Follow recommended investigations or referrals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is childhood cancer common?
Childhood cancer is relatively uncommon compared with cancer in adults. However, it remains an important health concern because timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment can affect outcomes.
Do these symptoms mean that a child has cancer?
No. Many of these symptoms are caused by infections and other childhood conditions. Persistent, unexplained or concerning symptoms should be assessed rather than assumed to be cancer.
Can childhood cancer be prevented?
Most childhood cancers do not have a known preventable cause. Unlike many adult cancers, lifestyle-related factors generally play a much smaller role in childhood cancer.
Is there routine screening for childhood cancer?
Routine population screening is generally not used for childhood cancers. Children with particular inherited or high-risk conditions may require specialised surveillance based on medical advice.
What should a parent do if they are concerned?
Speak with a qualified healthcare professional. Explain the symptoms, how long they have been present and whether they are changing. Further assessment can determine whether additional investigations are necessary.
Health Information
This page is intended for general health education and awareness.
Learn more: World Health Organization – Cancer in Children
Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general health education and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned about a child's health or symptoms, seek assessment from a qualified healthcare professional.
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