Understanding Childhood Cancer

September is a month of new beginnings—from the excitement of a new school year to settling back into routines. But it’s also Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on a cause that impacts families in every community. At Rainbow Pediatrics, we believe that knowledge is a powerful tool. By understanding the basics of childhood cancer, we can all become better advocates for the health and well-being of our children.

The Facts: What You Should Know

Childhood cancer is thankfully rare compared to adult cancers, but it remains the leading cause of death by disease among children in the United States. Here are a few key statistics to provide context:

• Prevalence: It’s estimated that nearly 15,000 children and adolescents will be diagnosed with cancer this year in the U.S. According to the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, 43 kids will be diagnosed with cancer every day, and 1 in 285 will be diagnosed by their 20th birthday.
• Progress and Hope: The good news is that medical advancements have dramatically improved survival rates. Over the past few decades, the five-year survival rate for all childhood cancers has risen to over 85%.
• Not One Disease: Childhood cancer isn’t a single condition. There are over a dozen major types and more than a hundred subtypes, each with its own unique characteristics and treatment plans. The most common types include leukemias (cancers of the blood), brain and spinal cord tumors, and lymphomas.

Early Diagnosis: Why It Matters

Unlike many adult cancers, childhood cancers are not typically linked to lifestyle choices or environmental factors. They are often the result of genetic changes that occur early in a child’s development. As a result, there are no recommended screening tests for children. Instead, most childhood cancers are found when a parent or doctor notices a persistent symptom.

While many of these symptoms can be caused by more common, less serious illnesses, it’s always important to pay attention to your child’s health. You know your child best. Trust your intuition and let us know if you suspect something is amiss.

Some potential signs and symptoms to be aware of include:

• A new or unusual lump or swelling
• Unexplained fevers or persistent fatigue
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Sudden, unexplained pain that doesn’t go away, such as bone or joint pain
• Changes in vision or frequent headaches with vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss

If you notice any of these symptoms or have a general concern about your child’s health, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us.

Our Commitment to Families

Our motto is to treat your children like our children, and we take that commitment seriously. We are a trusted partner in your child’s health journey. If a serious illness is ever suspected, we will work closely with you to ensure your child receives the specialized care they need from top pediatric oncology teams. We are here to answer your questions, provide support, and offer guidance every step of the way.

Please call us if you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment. We’re here to support you in any way we can.