TIL Desk Lucknow/ On the occasion of International Childhood Cancer Day, Apollomedics Hospital, Lucknow, is highlighting the need for greater awareness and early diagnosis of childhood cancer. Childhood cancer is a growing global health issue with an estimated 50,000 new cases in India alone each year. In high-income countries, more than 80% of children with cancer are cured, while in low- and middle-income countries, less than 30% are cured.
According to Dr. Archana Kumar, HOD Paediatric Haematology and Oncology at Apollomedics Hospital, “Many cancer symptoms in children resemble other routine illnesses, which can lead to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment. Increased awareness among family members and care givers about the signs and symptoms of cancer would lead to early diagnosis and better survival. Childhood cancers are highly curable and early referral to cancer centres can improve overall survival.”
The following symptoms, if persistent, could be signs of childhood cancer: white spot in the eye, new squint, blindness, bulging eyeball; lump in abdomen/pelvis, head and neck, in limbs, testes, glands; unexplained prolonged fever over 2 weeks; loss of weight, pallor, fatigue, easy bruising or bleeding; aching bones, joints, back, and easy fractures; and neurological signs such as change or deterioration in walk, balance, or speech, regression of milestones, headache for more than two weeks with or without vomiting, and enlarging head.
Apollomedics Hospital is committed to improving childhood cancer survival rates and providing the best care to children fighting cancer. The hospital encourages families and care givers to seek medical attention if they suspect any of the above symptoms and raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. We hope that with increased awareness of childhood cancer and the importance of early diagnosis, more children will be cured and we can achieve the target of over 60% survival all over the world.
Dr. Mayank Somani, MD & CEO of Apollomedics Hospital, emphasized the need for greater investment in childhood cancer care in low- and middle-income countries, “Treatment of childhood cancer can be cost-effective in all income settings, yet many children in low- and middle-income countries do not have access to the care they need. This is why the WHO has set a target goal of achieving at least 60% survival for all children diagnosed with cancer around the world by 2030. We must work together to eliminate all pain and suffering of children fighting cancer and save lives.”
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