A doctor explains the most common misconceptions about childhood cancer and what parents should know.

Introduction:

Thousands of young people worldwide are affected by the heartbreaking and life-altering diagnosis of childhood cancer. Increasing knowledge and comprehension of this illness is essential to encouraging hope and support for impacted families.

Myths and misconceptions about childhood cancer are frequently the result of fear and confusion, which can postpone diagnosis or cause needless concern. Separating fact from fantasy is essential, according to experts, not only to assist parents in making wise decisions but also to guarantee that children receive treatment on time. Although childhood cancer is uncommon, when it does happen, the prognosis is significantly improved by early detection and appropriate treatment. Parents are better equipped to react calmly rather than frantically when they are aware of the myths and the truth behind them.

The main misconceptions around childhood cancer were dispelled by Dr. Ramana Gogi, Principal Consultant-Medical Oncology at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram, in an interview with The Daily Jagran.

Myths About Childhood Cancer

Myth: Childhood cancer is always inherited.

Fact: The majority of cases do not actually have a genetic basis. Most childhood cancers are caused by spontaneous mutations in cells during growth, while some inherited genetic disorders can raise risk. This implies that parents shouldn't assume that cancer runs in the family or place the blame on themselves.

Myth: Children are more likely to develop the same cancers as adults.

Fact: Cancers in children differ greatly. Children are more likely to suffer from leukemias, brain tumors, and cancers of the lymphatic or neurological systems than adults, who are more likely to get lung, breast, or colon cancers associated with lifestyle choices. Parents should be aware that childhood malignancies are more closely linked to cellular and developmental changes than risk factors like food or smoking.

Myth: Childhood cancer is untreatable or always fatal.

Fact: Many forms of juvenile cancer now have significantly higher survival rates due to medical advancements. For instance, nearly 80% of patients now survive from some types of leukemia that were formerly fatal. Even while treatment can be emotionally taxing and rigorous, many kids recover and lead long, healthy lives.

Myth: Childhood cancers are always obvious.

Fact: Early symptoms, such weariness, recurrent fevers, chronic discomfort, or inexplicable weight loss, may resemble common ailments. These symptoms may be dismissed by parents as typical childhood problems, which could cause delays in diagnosis. Physicians stress that even seemingly slight health changes that persist and cannot be explained should always be examined.

Lastly, some parents worry that their child's cancer treatment would totally deprive them of a normal life. Despite the potential for short-term adverse effects from treatments like radiation and chemotherapy, many kids carry on with their regular activities, including play and school. Additionally, supportive care has increased, assisting kids in maintaining their standard of living while undergoing therapy.