Childhood cancer remains a rare but critical health issue
Each year in the UK, approximately 4,200 children and young adults are diagnosed with cancer. Among these, around 1,900 cases are childhood cancers, which span across 76 different types categorised into 12 main groups. The most common forms of childhood cancer are:
- Leukaemia (30%)
- Brain, CNS, and intracranial tumours (20%)
- Lymphomas (11%)
In addition, around 2,600 young people aged 15–24 are diagnosed with cancer annually, equating to approximately seven new cases daily. It’s important to note that the types of cancer affecting children differ significantly from those seen in teenagers, young adults, and older adults aged 25 and above.
Improved survival rates
Thanks to decades of investment in research and advancements in treatment, survival rates for childhood cancer have increased dramatically. Today, four out of five children with cancer can be successfully treated. In fact, survival rates have more than doubled since the 1960s, with over 80% of children now surviving for at least five years after diagnosis. For certain cancers, the cure rates are even higher.
Specialist care
Children and young people with cancer are treated at Principal Treatment Centres (PTC’s), which specialise in diagnosing and treating childhood and teenage cancers.
Understanding childhood cancer
Cancer is a disease of the body’s cells, which normally grow and divide in a controlled manner. When this process goes awry, cells may divide uncontrollably, leading to the formation of a tumour. Tumours can be:
- Benign: Non-cancerous and localized but can still cause issues by pressing on nearby tissues.
- Malignant: Cancerous, with the potential to invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body.
Cancer can also occur in the blood (e.g., leukaemia) or the lymphatic system (lymphoma). When cancer spreads from its original site to other areas, it is referred to as metastasis.
Common types of childhood cancer
Although childhood cancer is rare, the most common types include:
- Acute leukaemias: Cancers of the blood and bone marrow.
- Brain and spinal cord tumours: Affecting the central nervous system.
Other types include:
- Lymphomas: Cancers of the lymphatic system.
- Rhabdomyosarcoma: A cancer of the muscles, most commonly seen in children.
- Bone cancers: Such as osteosarcoma and Ewing’s sarcoma.
- Neuroblastoma: A cancer of the nerve cells.
- Wilms tumour: A kidney cancer.
- Retinoblastoma: An eye cancer.
Survival and cure rates
In the 1960s, only 20–30% of children with cancer were successfully treated. Today, over 80% of children diagnosed with cancer survive for at least five years. Certain cancers, like Hodgkin lymphoma and retinoblastoma, have even higher survival rates.
Although cancer remains the leading cause of death by disease in children, advancements in treatment have significantly reduced mortality rates over the years.
Symptoms of childhood cancer
The symptoms of childhood cancer can mimic other common illnesses, making diagnosis challenging. While cancer in children is rare, consult a doctor if your child experiences any of the following:
- Unexplained lumps or swelling
- Persistent pain (e.g., in the bones or abdomen).
- Frequent infections or unexplained bruising.
- Blood in urine or difficulty urinating.
- Persistent headaches or seizures.
- Fatigue, paleness, or unexplained fevers.
- Changes in eye appearance or vision issues.
These symptoms are not usually indicative of cancer but warrant medical attention if they persist.
This Christmas we are aiming to send 1,200 heatable cuddly Warmies(R) bears to children with cancer in hospitals and hospices across the UK. Each teddy costs just £12 to deliver and you can add a special message to the one you help to send.
Help send a ted to a hospital bed and give a child with cancer some comfort at Christmas.
What to Expect After Diagnosis
Initial Steps
Make sure you know what happens next. This includes where to take your child for any tests. Or, when to expect an appointment with another healthcare professional.
Ask when to make another appointment if your child’s symptoms don’t get better. Or if the symptoms get worse.
If symptoms persist or worsen, your child’s doctor may refer them to a specialist, such as a paediatrician or an ophthalmologist (for eye-related symptoms). Referrals follow clear guidelines across the UK, ensuring swift action when necessary.
Other diagnostic paths
In some cases, children are diagnosed during tests for unrelated conditions or following emergency visits due to sudden symptoms. The process can be overwhelming for families, but support networks are vital during this time.
Coping and Support
Receiving a diagnosis of childhood cancer can be an emotional shock. Seeing your child unwell and then learning about their cancer diagnosis in a short space of time can be very frightening. It’s essential to lean on friends, family, and support organisations for practical and emotional assistance.
Childhood cancer remains a rare but critical health issue. Advances in research and care have greatly improved outcomes, giving hope to thousands of families each year.
Free Kid’s Cancer Kits can be ordered from Cancer Support UK – these kits contain practical items specifically chosen to help support a child while in hospital receiving treatment for their cancer.
