Cancer is a devastating diagnosis, regardless of age. However, one of the most heartbreaking cancer diagnoses is in children. Every year, far too many children and adolescents have to battle cancer. Let’s gain more insight into the statistics of these diagnoses.
Yearly Diagnosis
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), an estimated 16,850 children and adolescents between 0 and 19 were diagnosed with cancer in 2020. Although cancer is more common among adults, a diagnosis in a child can be especially devastating for parents who have to watch their child go through treatment. The good news is that advances in cancer treatment have enabled many patients, including children, to find successful cancer cures.
Hope for the Future
Despite cancer diagnosis numbers being high each year, there has been a steady decline in cancer-related deaths among children and adolescents. This encouraging news is due to the cancer treatments available; cancer treatment has come a long way, even for children. From radiation therapy to immunotherapies, cancer treatment options are becoming increasingly effective.
Most Common Childhood Cancers
In addition to cancer diagnosis numbers, parents should be aware of the most common cancer types among children. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital states that the most common pediatric cancer diagnoses are acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), brain tumors, and neuroblastoma. Leukemia accounts for almost one-third of cancer diagnoses in children, while brain and other nervous system cancer account for a quarter. Knowing the common cancer types helps parents stay aware of any signs or symptoms that may indicate cancer.
How to Prevent Cancer
One way to prevent childhood cancer is to focus on lifestyle adjustment. This prevention includes healthy eating and engaging them in regular physical activity. Parents should also be aware of their family’s medical history since cancer can have a genetic component. Remember to take your child for regular pediatric care. Overall, prevention is the key to reducing cancer diagnosis numbers annually.
No parent wants to hear that their child has cancer. Improvements in cancer treatment and focusing on prevention strategies can pave the way to fewer cancer diagnoses each year and more successful cures. Children are resilient and can fight cancer, so supporting and providing them with the best cancer treatment is vital. If your family is dealing with this scenario, contact our local staff at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today for support.
Disclaimer: Palo Verde Cancer Specialists does not treat patients under the age of 18
Posted March 6th, 2023
