September marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of cancer on children and adolescents. Let's delve into the significance of this awareness month. What does childhood cancer mean? What are its symptoms? And underlying causes. On Childhood Cancer Awareness Month 2023, check out all the information about this major health concern that must reach those in need. Childhood Cancers Accounts for 7.9% of All Cancers in India 2012–19: ICMR Report.

Understanding Childhood Cancer

Childhood cancer refers to cancers that primarily affect individuals under the age of 18. It encompasses a range of malignancies, including leukaemia, brain tumours, neuroblastoma, Wilms tumour, and lymphoma. While it is relatively rare compared to cancer in adults, it remains a significant health concern due to its potential life-altering consequences. USP24, Gene Implicated In Neuroblastoma, Childhood Cancer Identified by Researchers.

Symptoms of Childhood Cancer

Recognizing the symptoms of childhood cancer is crucial for early diagnosis and effective treatment. Some common symptoms include persistent and unexplained:

  • Fatigue: Unusual and consistent tiredness beyond normal childhood fatigue.

  • Pain: Unexplained pain, often accompanied by swelling in bones or joints.

  • Fever: Prolonged or recurrent fever without any apparent cause.

  • Bruising or Bleeding: Easy bruising or bleeding, often seen as frequent nosebleeds.

  • Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite.

  • Lumps or Masses: Noticeable lumps or masses in the abdomen, neck, chest, pelvis, or elsewhere.

Causes of Childhood Cancer

The exact causes of childhood cancer remain largely unknown. However, various factors contribute to its development, including genetic predisposition, exposure to certain environmental toxins, and changes in DNA. In some cases, childhood cancer is linked to inherited genetic mutations that increase the risk.

Raising Childhood Cancer Awareness

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month plays a pivotal role in raising public awareness about the challenges faced by young cancer patients and their families. The campaign aims to foster a sense of solidarity and support within communities and encourage funding for research, treatment, and support programs.

To participate in the awareness efforts, consider the following steps:

  • Wear Gold: Gold is the official colour symbolising childhood cancer awareness. Wearing gold ribbons, accessories, or clothing items helps show solidarity.

  • Social Media Engagement: Utilize social media platforms to share information, personal stories, and relevant statistics using relevant hashtags.

  • Support Organizations: Contribute to organizations dedicated to childhood cancer research, patient support, and family assistance.

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder that even the youngest among us can face life-altering battles. By understanding the nature of childhood cancer, recognizing its symptoms, and supporting the cause, we can make a positive impact on the lives of young fighters and their families.

(Disclaimer: This article is written for an informative purpose and should not be substituted for medical advice. Kindly consult your doctor or professional nutritionist before trying any tips.)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 03, 2023 07:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).