The month of September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Each year, approximately 17,000 children are diagnosed with cancer; around 46 children are diagnosed every day. A cancer diagnosis impacts the entire family. Depending on the type of cancer, parents may need to take an extended leave from work or one parent may quit their job to devote their days entirely to the care of their child.
While drug treatments for adult cancers evolve constantly, the treatments for most childhood cancers (or cancers diagnosed in childhood) have remained the same for decades. In fact, many of the drugs used for children also are used to combat adult cancers; unfortunately, these chemotherapy agents wreak havoc on small and growing bodies.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that about 85 percent of children diagnosed with cancer survive for five years or longer. However, some types of cancers–like high-grade brain tumors– have much lower survival statistics. Research is crucial for improving childhood cancer survival rates and for reducing the late effects of treatments.
This Is The Most Common Childhood Cancer
Leukemias–cancers of the blood–remain the most common type of cancer diagnosed in childhood. Brain and spinal cord tumors, neuroblastoma (cancer of the adrenal glands), Wilms tumor (kidney), and lymphoma represent the five most common types of cancer among children.
Medulloblastoma is the most common type of childhood brain cancer. This tumor develops near the cerebellum, which controls motor movement. Medulloblastoma is highly invasive and can metastasize throughout the brain and spinal column.
Wear Gold: The Childhood Cancer Ribbon
Each type of cancer is represented by an awareness ribbon. While childhood cancer encompasses many different types of cancers (and tumors), an awareness ribbon exists that represents all children who are diagnosed with cancer. During September, families, friends, and supporters of children impacted by a cancer diagnosis wear a gold ribbon.
Late Effects of Childhood Cancer
Surviving pediatric cancer comes at a cost for many children. Unfortunately, many chemotherapy agents used to kill cancer also damage the bodies of young children. Effects or medical issues linked to chemotherapy, radiation, and other cancer treatments are known as “late effects” as they arise sometimes years after treatment.
Late effects vary per child and diagnosis. For example, a child who was treated for medulloblastoma may experience endocrine issues related to radiation treatment directed to pituitary and thyroid glands. Children may require growth hormones, thyroid medication, and other medications, too.
Many brain cancer survivors also suffer with learning struggles. Radiation therapy damages healthy brain tissue (as well as cancerous cells), leading to cognitive deficits that cause issues with information processing speed, abstract thinking/reasoning, and other crucial academic skills.
Local Organizations That Help Childhood Cancer Patients
Cancer robs young patients of a normal childhood. Many young patient spend their days in the hospital for treatments, infusions, and doctor appointments. The St. Louis area is home to many wonderful local organizations and non-profits that provide hope and help to children and their families during this difficult journey.
Friends of Kids provides different types of programs and activities for children who have been diagnosed with cancer or a blood disorder. The organization hosts numerous parties and events throughout the year, providing children and their families with fun and amazing experiences that offer a break from the hospital routine. Friends of Kids also provides scholarships and other programs.
Peregrine helps families and cancer patients have access to supplies they need during treatment. In some cases, insurance will not cover items like formula for g-tube nourishment; Peregrine helps fill these healthcare gaps.
The organization offers young cancer patients (and their siblings) with an opportunity to play team sports in a safe, friendly, and inclusive environment. The organization also hosts numerous events and activities for children and their families.
While Leaps of Love is located in Highland, Illinois, the organization serves families in the St. Louis and surround communities. Leaps of Love hosts retreats and events for children affected by pediatric cancer (and their families).
These organizations both grant the wishes (or dreams) of children with life-threatening medical conditions. Wishes and dreams have included trips to Disney, shopping sprees, a playground, and many other unique and amazing experiences.
Ways to Support Childhood Cancer Awareness
Show support of a child battling cancer by wearing a gold ribbon in September. Support organizations that help children and their families. Donating to organizations that advance pediatric cancer research like CureSearch also is vital.
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