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Paediatric Cancer: How Early Diagnosis Can Save Lives Paediatric Cancer: How Early Diagnosis Can Save Lives

Paediatric Cancer: How Early Diagnosis Can Save Lives


Surya Hospital

Surya Hospital

Surya Hospital 9 Min Read | 12

Paediatric cancer is one of the most challenging health conditions that affect children, but advances in treatment and early detection have significantly improved outcomes. Childhood cancer occurs when abnormal cells in a child’s body grow uncontrollably, affecting organs and tissues. Unlike adult cancers, pediatric cancers are often aggressive but also highly treatable with timely medical care.

It is important for parents and caregivers to know the initial signs of cancer in children. Detection of signs of cancer in children—e.g., recurring fevers, tiredness, or swelling—is associated with early diagnosis and improved survival rates. India is blessed with top-notch pediatric cancer hospitals in metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, providing expert care such as pediatric chemotherapy and minimal-invasive procedures.

What Is Paediatric Cancer?

Pediatric cancer is cancers that affect children below 15 years. They are unlike adult cancers in biology as well as how they react to drugs. Common cancers of childhood are:

Leukemia:

This is the most prevalent childhood cancer, specifically acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Signs of childhood leukemia are weakness, frequent infections, bruising, or bone pain.

Brain and Spinal Tumors:

Cancers that occur in the central nervous system may result in headaches, vision disturbances, or balance disorder.

Lymphoma:

It involves the lymphatic system and consists of Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Neuroblastoma and Wilms Tumor:

These tumors generally occur in the kidneys and adrenal glands among infants and toddlers.

Why Early Diagnosis of Childhood Cancer Matters?

The significance of cancer detection at an early stage cannot be overemphasized. Early detection of pediatric cancer enhances the rate of survival of childhood cancer, which can be up to 80% for certain cancers once they are treated early. Early treatment enables physicians to employ less invasive treatments and minimizes the likelihood of complications in the long run.

In India, there are specialized centers such as pediatric cancer hospitals in Delhi and Mumbai with superior diagnostic equipment, such as MRI, PET-CT scans, and genetic analysis, to identify cancers early. Such a highly renowned hospital is Surya Hospital in Mumbai.

Early Cancer Symptoms in Children

Parents need to always know about the symptoms of cancer in children that may appear unusual or persistent. Although they may be due to common disease, prolonged symptoms need to be evaluated medically.

Pediatric cancer signs commonly are:

  • Recurring weakness or lethargy.
  • Unexplained loss of weight or appetite.
  • Swollen lymph nodes or swelling without reason.
  • Persistent fever or infections that don't respond to treatment.
  • Frequent bleeding, bruising, or nosebleeds (indicative of leukemia in children).
  • Pain in the bones or joints without trauma.
  • Recurring headaches, vomiting, or vision changes.

If you experience these signs, consult an expert in child cancers or go to a pediatrics oncologist for assessment.
 

Diagnosis of Childhood Cancer

Diagnosis of childhood cancer is done through a series of investigations to ascertain the nature and extent of the disease. These tests include:

  • Blood tests to identify abnormal cells.
  • Imaging scans (MRI, CT, PET) to detect tumors.
  • Bone marrow aspiration for signs of childhood leukemia.
  • Biopsies to examine tissue samples.

Surya Hospital provides complete diagnostic services for suspected cases of cancer.
 

Paediatric Cancer Treatment in India

Pediatric cancer therapy varies with the cancer type, stage, and age of the child. India possesses superior pediatric chemotherapy facilities and other therapies, which are usually a fraction of what it would cost in Western countries.

1. Chemotherapy in Children

Chemotherapy employs potent drugs to destroy cancer cells. It's commonly applied for children with leukemia and lymphomas. Dosage is monitored carefully by pediatric oncologists to reduce side effects.

2. Surgery

Surgical procedures can be necessary for tumor removal, particularly in the case of solid tumors like Wilms tumor or brain tumors.

3. Radiation Therapy

Targeted radiation is applied in some forms of childhood cancer, including brain tumors, where accuracy is the main concern.

4. Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplant

This newer therapy is reserved for leukemias that are aggressive or recurrent cancers.

5. Targeted and Immunotherapy

With new-age treatments, there are more advances available at leading pediatric oncology hospitals in India, with higher survival rates and fewer side effects.

Top Pediatric Cancer Hospitals in India

India is renowned for its advanced pediatric oncology facilities. These are some reliable hospitals:

  • Apollo Hospitals (Chennai, Delhi): Provides complete pediatric chemotherapy and surgery.
  • Kokilaben Hospital, Mumbai: Known for having a panel of eminent cancer experts.
  • Surya Hospital, Mumbai: Leading centre for the treatment of childhood cancer in India.

Childhood Cancer Awareness

Increasing awareness of childhood cancer is essential in India, where delay in diagnosis is a typical problem. Schools, communities, and health organizations are launching early detection campaigns and screening initiatives.
 

Childhood Cancer Survival Rate in India

The survival rate for childhood cancer in India is growing with improved medical facilities and availability of sophisticated treatments such as immunotherapy. The survival rate for leukemia, for instance, can be as high as 80–90% if caught early.

Conclusion

Pediatric cancer cannot always be prevented, but prompt diagnosis of childhood cancer can be a lifesaver. By recognizing the symptoms of children's cancer and making instant medical intervention, families can help get the child appropriate treatment promptly and increase the chances of survival. World-class treatments, ranging from pediatric chemotherapy to bone marrow transplantation, in India's top pediatric oncology hospitals bring hope to children and their families.

If you’re concerned about unusual symptoms in your child, consult a cancer specialist for children. Early detection saves lives—don’t wait.

Book your appointment now.
 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the most prevalent forms of childhood cancer?
A: Leukemia, brain cancer, lymphomas, neuroblastoma, and Wilms tumor are some of the most prevalent forms of childhood cancer.

Q2. What are children's early leukemia signs?
A: Persistent tiredness, pain in bones, repeated infections, and abnormal bruising are some of the common symptoms of leukemia in children.

Q3. Where can I get the best pediatric cancer treatment in India?
A: Surya Hospital is one of the best hospital for pediatric cancer treatment.

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