Childhood Cancer: Signs, Management, and Hope

Childhood cancer is a frightening specter for every parent. Although cases are relatively rare, the impact on the family and affected child is significant. Understanding the symptoms, management, and hope for a cure can be key to facing the challenges of childhood cancer.
Common Types of Childhood Cancer

Some common types of childhood cancer include leukemia, brain tumors, neuroblastoma tumors, and lymphoma. Although rare, childhood cancer can grow and spread rapidly, threatening the health and life of the child.

Symptoms of Childhood Cancer

The symptoms of childhood cancer vary depending on the type. Some signs to watch out for include:

1. Swollen abdomen: Abdominal swelling without a clear cause.
2. Pain in the hands and bones: Pain without a history of trauma or infection.
3. Persistent headache: This condition requires special attention.
4. Weight loss: The child's weight drops without a clear reason.
5. Fever without a cause: Fever of unknown origin.
6. Persistent cough: Cough that does not improve or persists.
7. Night sweats: Excessive sweating at night.
8. Painless lump: Swelling without pain.

In the category of childhood cancer, six types of cancer are prone to attack children under the age of 18, namely leukemia, retinoblastoma, osteosarcoma, malignant lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and neuroblastoma.

Signs and Symptoms of Each Type of Cancer:

1. Leukemia: The child is fussy, pale, feverish, has skin bleeding, and enlarged organs.
2. Retinoblastoma: The eyes are white, have cat's eyes, and blurred vision.
3. Osteosarcoma: Bone pain, redness, swelling, and broken bones.
4. Malignant Lymphoma: Swollen lymph nodes, fever, and weight loss.
5. Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: Runny nose, bloody mucus, tinnitus, and nasal congestion.
6. Neuroblastoma: Bleeding around the eyes, bone pain, protruding eyes, and impaired bodily functions.

Cancer Prevention Through CERDIK:

To date, the risk factors and causes of childhood cancer are not fully understood. However, parents can take preventive measures by implementing the CERDIK behavior:

1. Regular health checks: Early detection can increase the chances of a cure.
2. Eliminate cigarette smoke: Avoid exposure to harmful cigarette smoke.
3. Be diligent in physical activity: Fulfill the body's need for physical activity.
4. Healthy and balanced diet: Consume nutritious food to support growth.
5. Get enough rest: Maintain a balance between activity and rest.
6. Manage stress: Reduce stress in a healthy way.

Although childhood cancer is a difficult reality, with early detection, proper treatment, and a healthy lifestyle, the hope for a cure is increasing. Parents have an important role in maintaining their child's health and providing support during the treatment process. Hopefully, with awareness and knowledge, we can fight childhood cancer and give them hope for a better future.

Sources:

https://p2ptm.kemkes.go.id/kegiatan-p2ptm/pusat-/kenali-gejala-dini-kanker-pada-anak
https://ayosehat.kemkes.go.id/mengenal-gejala-dini-penyakit-kanker-pada-anak