In the United States in 2005, approximately 10,000 children under age 15 were
diagnosed with cancer
According to the same study, more than 1500 children under the age of 19 were
diagnosed with cancer in California in 2002
Diagnoses of cancer in children is far too common - one in every 330
children
Among the 12 major types of childhood cancers, leukemias (blood cell cancers)
and brain and other central nervous system tumors account for over one-half of
the new cases
About one-third of childhood cancers are leukemias. The most common type of
leukemia in children is acute lymphoblastic leukemia
The most common solid tumors are brain tumors with other solid tumors
(e.g., neuroblastomas, Wilm's tumors, and sarcomas such as rhabdomyosarcoma)
being less common.
According to the American Cancer Society California Cancer Facts and Figures
for 2002, cancer kills more children from birth to age 14 than any other disease.
Cancer kills more children than asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, congenital
anomalies and AIDS, combined
Did you know... although it is unlikely that your child will develop cancer, as a parent, you need to be aware of the symptoms of childhood cancer. Observe your child for any sudden, persistent changes in health or behavior as listed in these "Signs of Childhood Cancer":
Continued, unexplained weight loss
Headaches, often with vomiting, at night or early morning
Increased swelling or persistent pain in bones, joints, back, or legs
Lump or mass, especially in the abdomen, neck, chest, pelvis, or armpits
Development of excessive bruising, bleeding, or rash
Constant infections
A whitish color behind the pupil
Nausea which persists or vomiting without nausea
Constant tiredness or noticeable paleness
Eye or vision changes which occur suddenly and persist
Copyright 2006 © Jacob's Heart Children's Cancer Support Services. All rights reserved.