Can childhood cancer recur after treatment?
Pediatric cancers show good response rates to treatment, when detected early. However, these cancers may recur, called a relapse. Regular follow-ups are mandatory to monitor for any signs of cancer returning.
What are the side effects of cancer therapy?
Cancer therapies damage normal cells along with cancer cells and further weaken the immune system. This may cause side effects such as frequent infections, mouth sores, hair loss, reduced appetite, frequent need for blood transfusions, gastric issues, and infertility.
Is radiation or chemotherapy safe for my child?
Yes, radiation and chemotherapy are relatively safe for children with cancer. These should be done by a skilled medical team in a specially designated cancer facility. Side effects can occur, which require knowledge and palliative care.
How do you diagnose cancer in children?
If any of the above warning signs of cancer are evident, rush to your doctor and get a thorough checkup done. Depending on the type of cancer suspected, the child is prescribed blood tests, bone marrow aspiration, X-rays, CT, MRI, or tissue biopsy. The treatment plan depends on the location, nature, and extent of spread in the body.
What are the common cancers affecting children?
The most common childhood cancer is leukemia, which is an abnormal increase in the white blood cell count. Other common cancers are those involving the lymphatic system (called Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas), brain and spinal cord (medulloblastoma, glioma), nerve tissue (neuroblastoma), muscles (rhabdomyosarcoma)and kidney (Wilm's tumor).
What causes cancer in children?
No specific cause or risk factors have been identified for pediatric cancers. It is believed that DNA mutation causes uncontrolled growth of certain cells, leading to cancer.
Do all heart murmurs indicate a problem?
No. Many heart murmurs in children are harmless (called innocent murmurs) and don’t require treatment.
Can children with heart disease play sports?
It depends on the condition. Your child’s cardiologist will advise on safe levels of activity.
Is surgery safe for babies and young children?
Yes. Pediatric cardiac surgery has advanced significantly, with high success rates in experienced centers.
Will my child outgrow their heart condition?
Some minor defects (like small VSDs) may close on their own, but others require monitoring or treatment.
