Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

According to the WorldHealth Organization, an estimated 400,000 children and adolescents aged 0–19 years are diagnosed with cancer each year. In India alone, the National Cancer Registry Programme reports nearly 50,000 new pediatric cases annually. Unfortunately, many go undiagnosed or receive delayed treatment due to low awareness and limited resources.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a compassionate surgical oncologist at MACS Clinic in Bangalore, emphasizes: “One of the most heartbreaking truths in India is that childhood cancers often remain hidden until it’s too late. Awareness campaigns help connect families with the right care sooner. Our goal is to ensure that every child—regardless of geography or income—gets timely and effective treatment.”

It’s globally recognized as the time to honor the lives of children diagnosed with cancer and those lost too soon. The gold ribbon month galvanizes communities, hospitals, NGOs, and influencers to mobilize support and ignite conversations that often go unheard.

In India, where delayed diagnoses and inadequate infrastructure remain key concerns, this month plays an even more crucial role. Public events, school campaigns, and hospital outreach programs make it possible to reach underserved populations and promote early screening.

Dr. Suresh Babu, a pioneering medical oncologist practicing in Bangalore, notes: “September offers us a spotlight—a chance to center childhood cancer in policy discussions and public discourse. The stories shared this month build momentum for change all year round.”

 Let’s take a closer look at the different types of childhood cancer you should be aware of.

While childhood cancers are fewer in number compared to adult cancers, they differ in type, behavior, and treatment. Here are the most commonly diagnosed pediatric cancers:

• Leukemia: This blood cancer is the most common childhood cancer, especially acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Symptoms can include fatigue, frequent infections, and unexplained bruising.
• Brain and Central Nervous System Tumors: These can affect movement, vision, and cognitive development, depending on location.
• Neuroblastoma: Often found in infants, this cancer typically arises from the adrenal glands and can spread rapidly.
• Wilms’ Tumor: A kidney cancer usually seen in children under 5 years old.
• Lymphomas: Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas affect the lymphatic system and are more common in older children.
• Retinoblastoma: A rare eye cancer that mostly affects young children, often detected by a white glow in the pupil.

“Each type presents unique challenges,” explains Dr. Devaprasad Munisiddaiah, a minimal access Oncosurgeon in Bangalore. “Tailored treatments and specialized pediatric oncology care are essential—not just to treat the disease but to ensure a child’s development isn’t compromised.”

Worried that something may be off with your child’s health? Here’s what you should never ignore.

Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes. While many symptoms of childhood cancer can resemble common illnesses, persistent or unusual signs should always be evaluated.

• Unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue
• Frequent fevers or infections
• Unusual lumps or swelling, especially in the abdomen or neck
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Bone pain or limping
• Sudden changes in vision or balance issues
• White reflection in the eye, especially in photographs

Prompt consultation with a pediatric specialist can ensure timely diagnosis and intervention.

Still wondering how common childhood cancer really is? The numbers might surprise you.

Understanding the scale of the issue helps us appreciate the urgency of action. Here are some important kids, cancer facts to consider:

• Survival disparity: In high-income countries, the survival rate exceeds 80%, while in low- and middle-income countries, it’s often below 30%.
• Most common type: Leukemia accounts for nearly 1 in 3 childhood cancers.
• Research funding gap: Less than 4% of total cancer research funding globally goes to pediatric cancers.

“Statistics reflect more than numbers—they reflect access,” emphasizes Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a distinguished surgical oncologist based in Bangalore. “Every child deserves an equal chance at survival, and these disparities tell us we have much more work to do.”

But how do we treat these illnesses—and what hurdles remain?

Modern pediatric oncology offers several effective treatments, but they come with unique challenges. Since a child’s body is still developing, treatments must be carefully tailored to protect long-term health.

So, what happens after the treatment phase ends? Let’s discuss the road ahead.

Survivorship is a long and evolving journey. Once treatment ends, children face a new set of challenges—physical, emotional, and social.

Regular Monitoring: For relapse signs and treatment side effects.

Growth and Development Support: Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and learning interventions.

Emotional Counseling: Children may struggle with trauma, anxiety, or social reintegration.

School Re-entry Programs: Help reintegrate survivors into their educational journey.

“Healing isn’t just medical—it’s emotional, social, and developmental,” shares the highly-skilled MACS Cancer Team. “Children need a nurturing environment to regain their confidence and rediscover childhood. Families also need continued support to rebuild their lives and routines.”

Want to make a difference in a child’s life? Here’s how.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, student, or business owner, there are many meaningful ways to support childhood cancer causes.

Ways to Contribute:

Donate: Support foundations and hospitals offering free pediatric care.

Volunteer: Offer your time at cancer support centers or awareness drives.

Organize Events: Host school or community awareness programs.

Fundraise Creatively: Marathons, bake sales, art auctions—all help spread the message.

Educate Others: Share verified information and encourage early check-ups.

Small efforts collectively make a significant difference in funding research, supporting families, and providing medical access.

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is more than a campaign—it’s a call to action. It’s about standing in solidarity with children and their families, amplifying their voices, and demanding better outcomes.

With continued awareness, early diagnosis, equitable care, and emotional healing, we can give every child the chance to survive—and thrive.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only. Individual results may vary. Consult a qualified doctor for personalized advice.