Hyderabad: International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD), observed annually on February 15, stands as a collective effort to shed light on the unique challenges faced by children and adolescents battling cancer. In its 23rd year, the day, initiated by Childhood Cancer International (CCI) in 2002, has evolved into a powerful global platform. It aims to raise awareness, garner support from various stakeholders, and advocate for improved care and treatment for children and survivors worldwide.
Theme- The theme for this year’s International Childhood Cancer Day is ‘Reducing the Survival Gap’ to reduce the survival gap by up to 60% by 2030.
Statistics and Goals- Every year, over 400,000 children and adolescents below 20 are diagnosed with cancer globally, yet only half receive timely diagnosis and treatment. Disturbingly, in high-income countries, 20% of children remain uncured, while in low- and middle-income countries, this number spikes to a staggering 70%. The World Health Organisation's Global Childhood Cancer Initiative aims to end all cancer-related suffering for children by 2030, setting a target of at least a 60% survival rate for diagnosed cases.
Causes- The causes of childhood cancer are diverse, rooted in genetic alterations that give rise to tumours affecting various body parts. Unlike cancers in adults, the majority of childhood malignancies have unknown origins. While environmental and lifestyle factors play a limited role, chronic diseases like malaria, HIV, and the Epstein-Barr virus pose significant risks in low- and middle-income countries. Vaccinations and early detection of infections become crucial preventive measures.
Types of Childhood cancers-
- Leukaemia: Making up over 30% of all children's cancer cases, leukaemia is the most prevalent kind of the disease. The impacts of leukaemia on the bone marrow and blood result in abnormal production of white blood cells.
- Brain and Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumours: The second most common type of cancer in children is brain tumours. These tumours may appear in different areas of the spinal cord or brain. These consist of ependymomas, gliomas, and medulloblastomas, among others.
- Neuroblastoma: This cancer arises from immature nerve cells in many body areas, primarily in the adrenal glands situated above the kidneys. It usually affects newborns and young children.
- Nephroblastoma- also known as Wilms tumour, is a kind of kidney cancer that mostly affects children, typically those between the ages of three and four. It can also expand from its original place in the kidneys to other parts of the body.
- Lymphoma: lymphomas affect the body's lymphatic system, which is a part of the immune system. The two main types of lymphomas that affect children are non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Rhabdomyosarcoma: This type of soft tissue sarcoma typically affects hollow organs like the bladder or uterus, as well as muscles attached to bones. It is one of the most common soft tissue sarcomas in children..
- Retinoblastoma: It is a cancer that primarily affects young children and starts in the retina. It could damage one or both eyes, leading to vision loss or blindness.
- Osteosarcoma: This is the most common type of bone cancer in children and adolescents. It commonly starts in the bones around the knee, though it can also occur in other bones.
- Ewing Sarcoma: Another type of cancer that affects the bones, Ewing sarcoma usually affects the long bones of the body, such as the arms, legs, or pelvis. It primarily affects older children and teenagers.
Prevention Strategies and Early Intervention-
- Early Diagnosis: Timely identification enhances the chances of successful treatment, reduces pain, and lowers the overall burden of care.
- Palliative Care: Recognising that not all cases can be cured, palliative care becomes integral to easing symptoms and enhancing the quality of life.
- Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Encouraging balanced diets, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and minimising exposure to harmful substances reduce cancer risks.
- Immunisations: Ensuring children receive necessary vaccines, such as hepatitis B and HPV, plays a pivotal role in preventing infections linked to specific cancers.
- Genetic Counseling and Testing: Identifying children with a family history of cancer or genetic disorders allows for tailored preventive measures and increased surveillance.
- Sun Protection: Limiting exposure to UV radiation through sunscreen, protective clothing, and sunglasses helps mitigate the risk of skin cancer.
