Understanding Pediatric Cancer

Pediatric cancer is a term that can strike fear into the hearts of parents. But what is pediatric cancer exactly? It’s a group of diseases that affect children and teenagers, with unique characteristics that set them apart from adult cancers. Understanding Childhood Cancer is important for early detection and effective treatment.

When we define what is pediatric cancer, we’re referring to a range of cancers that occur in children from birth to age 19. These cancers can develop in various parts of the body, from blood cells to brain tissue. Unlike adult cancers, which are often linked to lifestyle factors or aging, pediatric cancers are typically the result of DNA changes in cells that happen very early in life, sometimes even before birth.

The Landscape of Pediatric Cancer

Pediatric cancer is relatively rare, but it remains a leading cause of death by disease among children in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society’s 2024 report, about 9,620 children under 15 will be diagnosed with cancer in that year.

The most common types of cancer in children include:

• Leukemias (blood cancers or blood disorders)
• Brain and spinal cord tumors
• Neuroblastoma
• Wilms tumor (kidney cancer)
• Lymphomas
• Rhabdomyosarcoma
• Retinoblastoma
• Bone cancers such as Osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma

Each of these cancers presents unique challenges and requires specialized treatment approaches.

The Unique Nature of Pediatric Cancer

What is pediatric cancer, and how does it differ from adult cancer? The answer lies in its biology and behavior. Most Childhood Cancers grow faster and are more aggressive than adult cancer cells. They also tend to respond better to specific treatments, particularly chemotherapy. Another key difference is the impact of treatment on a child’s developing body. Pediatric cancer treatments can affect a child’s growth, cognitive development, and fertility. This makes long-term follow-up care even more important for Childhood Cancer survivors.

Diagnosis of Childhood Cancers

Diagnosing pediatric cancer can be challenging because many symptoms mimic those of common childhood illnesses. Parents and pediatricians must be vigilant about persistent symptoms that don’t resolve with standard treatments or recur. Common signs of Childhood Cancers include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Headaches, often with early morning vomiting
• Increased swelling or pain in bones, joints, back, or legs
• Lump or mass in the abdomen, neck, chest, pelvis, or armpits
• Excessive bruising or bleeding
• Persistent fatigue or noticeable paleness

If a doctor suspects cancer, they may order various tests, including blood work, imaging studies, and biopsies.

Treatment Approaches For Most Pediatric Cancer Diagnosis

Treatment options for pediatric cancer have come a long way in recent decades. Today, more than 80% of children diagnosed with cancer survive five years or more, thanks to advances in treatment protocols. Pediatric oncology teams use a variety of treatments, often in combination:

• Chemotherapy drugs
• Radiation therapy
• Surgery
• Immunotherapy
• Stem cell transplant

The choice of treatment depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and the child’s overall health. Many children receive treatment through clinical trials, which offer access to the latest therapies.

The Impact on Families

Childhood cancer treatments affect the entire family. Parents must navigate complex medical decisions while supporting their child emotionally. Siblings may feel neglected or anxious. Financial strains can add to the stress. Support services are just as important as cancer care. Many hospitals offer:

• Child life specialists help children cope with treatment
• Social workers to assist with practical and emotional needs
• Educational support to help children keep up with schoolwork
• Support groups for parents and siblings
• Long-Term Effects and Survivorship resources

As survival rates improve, there’s an increasing focus on the long-term effects of common Childhood Cancer treatments. Survivors may face:

• Heart or lung problems
• Learning difficulties
• Fertility issues
• Secondary cancers

Regular follow-up care, including tests to detect late effects, is essential to monitor for signs and address potential issues. Beyond a survivor care plan, many cancer centers now have survivorship clinics dedicated to the long-term health of Childhood Cancer survivors.

Research and Hope for Children

Medical research into pediatric cancer is ongoing and promising. Scientists are developing more targeted therapies to reduce side effects while improving efficacy. Immunotherapy, which harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer, is showing particular promise in some Childhood Cancers. Genetic research is also opening new doors. By understanding the genetic changes that lead to different pediatric cancers, researchers hope to develop more personalized treatment approaches.

Sky High for Kids has pledged over $40 Million to top research institutes like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Texas Children’s Hospital to create new, less dangerous forms of treatment and to fight the deadliest forms of cancer.

Help Write More Success Stories – Contact Sky High For Kids

Prevention and Risk Factors

Unlike many adult cancers, most cancers in children can’t be prevented. They’re not typically linked to environmental or lifestyle factors. However, some genetic conditions can increase a child’s risk of developing cancer. According to the U.S. National Cancer Institute, about 6% to 8% of children and teenagers with cancer have inherited genetic disorders that increase their risk. For example, children with Down syndrome have a higher risk of developing leukemia. Other inherited conditions, like Li-Fraumeni syndrome, also increase cancer risk. While we can’t prevent most pediatric cancers, early detection is key. Parents should be aware of potential symptoms and seek medical attention if they have concerns.

The Role of Cancer Support Organizations

Numerous organizations are dedicated to supporting children with cancer and their families. These groups offer various services, from financial assistance to emotional support. Some, like Sky High for Kids, advocate for increased research funding and improved care standards.

FAQs about Pediatric Cancer

What is considered pediatric cancer?

Pediatric cancer refers to cancers that occur in children and adolescents, typically from birth to age 19. It includes various types of cancers affecting different parts of the body, with leukemias, brain tumors, and lymphomas being among the most common.

Can pediatric cancer be cured?

Many pediatric cancers can be cured, with overall survival rates now exceeding 80%. However, the prognosis varies depending on the type of cancer, its stage at diagnosis, and how well it responds to treatment. One big difference between children and adults is their ability to recover rapidly. Ongoing research continues to improve cure rates and reduce long-term side effects.

What is the survival rate of Childhood Cancer?

In high-income countries like the United States, the survival rate for Childhood Cancer now exceeds 80%, a significant improvement from past decades. This progress is largely due to advancements in treatment and increased access to specialized care. However, globally, there is a stark contrast—about 90% of children with cancer live in low- and middle-income countries, where access to diagnosis and treatment is often limited. As a result, many of these children do not survive. Worldwide, approximately 400,000 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer each year, but only about half of these cases are identified. Efforts are ongoing to improve survival rates globally, with international collaborations aiming to increase the cure rate for the most Common Childhood cancers to 60% by 2030.

What is the life expectancy of a Childhood Cancer patient?

Life expectancy for Childhood Cancer patients has dramatically improved over the years. Many survivors now live long, healthy lives into adulthood. However, some may face long-term health issues related to their cancer or its treatment. Regular follow-up care is needed to monitor and address any potential late effects of treatment or a return of cancer.

Final Thoughts on Childhood Cancer

Understanding Childhood (or pediatric) Cancer is helpful to parents, healthcare providers, and society at large. While a diagnosis can be devastating, advancements in treatment have dramatically improved outcomes for many children. 

Early detection, specialized care, and ongoing research and clinical trials offer hope to families facing this challenging journey. 

As we continue to conquer the complexities of pediatric cancer, we move closer to a future where every child has the best possible chance of survival and a healthy life beyond cancer treatment. The fight against pediatric cancer is far from over, but with continued research, support, and awareness, we can make significant strides in reducing and eliminating Childhood Cancer.

For more information or to help support pediatric patients, contact Sky High For Kids and learn more about how you can help.

Support a Cancer Warrior – Sponsor Today