Adults can develop cancer in various parts of their bodies due to factors such as infections, unhealthy eating habits, and lifestyle choices. However, it is unfortunate that cancer can also affect young children. Lack of awareness, slow progression of the disease and its symptoms, delayed diagnosis, and postponed treatment all have a negative impact on the final outcome.
Blood cancers, such as leukemia, are most prevalent in children and makeup approximately 30% of all cancers. The second most common types are brain and spinal cord cancers. Wilms tumor, which affects the kidneys, and retinoblastoma, which affects the eyes, are also among the cancers that occur in children.
Children, especially young ones, are unable to express their problems or any discomfort they may be experiencing. Often, cancer in children is diagnosed at a late stage when active treatment options are limited. It is important for adults to be aware of the possibility of cancer in children. People should be educated about the fact that even a child can develop cancer, as there is a common misconception that cancer only affects the elderly.
A child with a poor appetite, unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, and no clinically or test-detected infection should prompt tests for cancer. Swellings in any part of the body, sudden onset of bleeding from any site, unexplained headache, dizziness, and vomiting without nausea are additional indicators of cancer.
Viral infections are known to cause cancers in adults as well as children. Human immune deficiency virus, Human papillomavirus, Epstein Barr virus, etc. are known to cause various lymphomas and leukemia in children. The child may even acquire an infection from the mother during pregnancy. Bacterial infections are typically not associated with causing cancers. However, recent studies have revealed a connection between the bacterial infection helicobacter pylori and the development of gastric cancers.
Exposure to radiation and strong sunlight are some other risk factors that can cause cancers in children. More than 100,000 chemicals are being used today in various forms. They are used in pesticides, in body care products even for babies, in fast ready-to-eat foods, processed foods, sodas and processed juices, etc. Many of these chemicals are now known to cause various types of cancers. Children enjoy eating these foods, and caring parents willingly provide them.
Exposure to passive smoking, whether during pregnancy or in childhood, increases the risk of cancer in children. The development of cancer is influenced by the quantity of carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals), the duration of exposure, and the body's ability to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells.
An insufficient protein intake in one’s diet weakens the body's immune system, making it more vulnerable to viral infections and cancers. Children from affluent families tend to engage in sedentary activities during their leisure time, such as using computers and smartphones, instead of participating in outdoor games. This sedentary lifestyle also reduces their immunity, increasing their susceptibility to both cancers and infections.
Genetic mutations are also responsible for causing cancers. A child may have a mutation or acquire a genetic mutation from either parent. This factor cannot be altered. However other risk factors can be taken care of to prevent cancers in children. Parents should encourage children to take freshly prepared meals containing all the necessary nutrients. It should include fresh vegetables, fruits, healthy meat and milk products, and whole grains. They should be discouraged from eating fast foods, processed foods, and sodas, particularly in excess. Fresh fruit juices should be substituted for sodas. A couple planning to have a baby need to quit smoking. The risk of cancer can be minimised in a child with preventive measures.
Dr Rachna Pande is a specialist in internal medicine.