The purpose of this article is to provide a brief overview of three cancers that are common to children: leukemia, lymphoma, and osteosarcoma (bone cancer).
Although childhood cancers are relatively rare, affecting only 14 out of
every 100,000 children, the illnesses are very serious and should be diagnosed
early. Childhood cancer has an array of symptoms, some less severe than others.
Sadly, many children are unable to make a full recovery because their diagnosis
occurred after the cancer had attacked other organs and tissues. The key to surviving
cancer is receiving an early diagnosis and treatment. Because childhood cancer
symptoms mimic less critical ailments, parents may not recognize problems.
However, there are tell-tale signs that can alert parents to a potentially
serious health condition.
What is Cancer?
The word cancer has been around for many years; nonetheless, many do not
fully comprehend this serious illness. We are aware that cancer may be fatal,
but few understand what happens when cancer develops in the body. Our bodies
naturally produce strong cells. Sometimes, abnormal cells begin to grow. If
these cells are not removed or killed, they spread through the body attacking
healthy cells. As healthy cell die, a cancer victim's health begins to
deteriorate. Individuals in the advance stages of cancer may suffer extreme
fatigue, anemia, and pain. Childhood cancers are often difficult to detect.
Children are less inclined to vocalize when they are not feeling themselves.
Thus, parents must remain observant to seemingly minor sicknesses.
Children may be affected by many sorts of cancers; however there are three
types of cancer that are more common in children. These include: