Why Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Matters

Every September, we observe Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children under the age of 15. The American Cancer Society anticipates that 9,550 new cancer cases among children in the United States and approximately 1,050 children will die from these diseases in 2025.

During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we have the opportunity to learn more about the disease, understand its impact, and raise money for research. Not only can we find cures through this research, but it also helps improve the quality of life for kids undergoing treatment. Awareness also helps families find support networks, where they can connect with others going through similar experiences.

The most common cancer in children is leukemia, which is a type of blood cancer. Cancer can also occur in other places, such as the lymph nodes (lymphoma), nervous system (brain tumors), and muscles, bone and skin (solid tumors).

Common Signs of Childhood Cancer

Detecting cancer early in children can make a big difference in how well they respond to treatment. Here are some signs to look for. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to talk to a doctor:

1. Unexplained Weight Loss
   If your child suddenly loses weight without trying, it could be a sign of illness. Unexplained weight loss should always be checked by a doctor.
   
   
2. Persistent Pain
   Pain that doesn’t improve with normal treatment should not be ignored. It’s important to have your child see a doctor, especially if they have persistent pain in the bones, joints, or back.
   
   
3. Lumps or Swelling
   Lumps or swelling anywhere on the body can be a sign of cancer, especially if they don't go away or seem to get bigger over time. This is particularly true in areas like the abdomen, neck, or underarms. An enlarged lymph node could be a sign of lymphoma or other cancers spreading to the lymph nodes.
   
   
4. Unusual Bruising or Bleeding
   If your child has frequent or unexplained bruising, nosebleeds, or bleeding from the gums, it might be a sign that something is wrong with their blood or bone marrow. This could indicate leukemia or other types of cancer.
   
   
5. Fatigue or Pale Skin
   Feeling very tired or pale for no apparent reason can be a sign that something serious is happening. If your child seems overly tired or weak and is not getting better with rest, it’s worth having a doctor look into it.
   
   
6. Headaches or Vomiting
   Persistent headaches, especially those that wake your child up at night or are followed by vomiting, can be signs of a brain tumor. It’s important to have these symptoms checked right away.
   
   
7. Changes in Vision
   If your child starts having trouble with their vision, or if their eyes begin to look different (for example, one eye might look crossed), it could be related to cancer.
   
   
8. Fever and Night Sweats
   An unexplained fever that doesn’t go away can be a symptom of cancer. If your child has a fever, especially with night sweats, it could be a warning sign. This is especially true if your child has no other symptoms of a cold and the fever persists for a few weeks.
   

It’s important to remember that many of these symptoms can also be caused by other, less serious conditions. However, if you notice any of these signs in your child and they don't go away or seem to get worse, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor. Early detection is key, and the sooner a doctor can diagnose a problem, the sooner your child can start receiving treatment.

Where to Learn More

During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to delve deeper, share information, and support families who are dealing with cancer. By raising awareness and increasing our knowledge, we are taking steps toward a future where childhood cancer no longer takes so many young lives.

For more information and resources on childhood cancer, I would recommend the American Cancer Society website. 

Dr. Margot Favret is a resident physician who sees patients of all ages and provides obstetrical services at Lone Star Family Health Center, a non-profit 501©3 Federally Qualified Health Center operating facilities in Conroe, Spring, Willis, Grangerland, and Huntsville, and serving as home to a fully integrated Family Medicine Residency Program to increase the number of Family Medicine physicians for Texas and our community.