Cancer can hit people of any age and strike any part of the body. It begins with a genetic alteration in a single cell, which subsequently grows and divide much faster than healthy cells. They can spread throughout the body, sometimes it grows into a mass (or tumor) and if left untreated, causes harm and death.

A golden ribbon signifies International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month which is commemorated every month of September to raise awareness and express support on young people who suffers from pediatric cancer. Children's cancers might be difficult to identify since it can be manifested in the same way as other prevalent pediatric illnesses. According to the Department of Health (DOH) the following are the symptoms in children that may be related to cancer: prolonged, unexplained fever or illness; unexplained pallor; increased tendency to bruise, unexplained localized pain, or limping; unusual masses or swelling; frequent headaches, often with vomiting; sudden eye or visual changes; sudden or progressive weight loss. Moreover, in children, cancer is an extremely uncommon disease. Since the cause is unknown by the time cancer is identified, it is usually in an advanced stage.

In the Philippines, there are many different types of childhood cancers such as: Brain and spinal cancer, Lymphomas (Hodgkin’s Disease or non-hodgin Lymphoma), Retinoblastoma, Wilm’s tumor, Osteogenic sarcoma, Rhabdomyosarcoma and Gonadal and germ cell sites. Further, the most common type of childhood cancer in the country is Leukemia; there are two types of leukemia: acute and chronic. Acute leukemia is the uncontrolled spread of immature or “blastic” cells while chronic leukemia is the proliferation of more mature or differentiated cells. Leukemias can be manifested in several ways. Some are discovered during physical examinations. Some, however, may experience pallor, bruisability, malaise, anorexia, intermittent fever, bone pains, abdominal discomfort, or bleeding which are also symptoms of leukemia. 

Below are the DOH’s healthy tips for the mothers and caregivers to prevent childhood cancers

• Make sure the children's foods are well-balanced in terms of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
• Foods that are overly sweet, salty, or greasy should be avoided.
• Avoid canned products, chips, and curls, as well as other processed meals.
• Ensure that children get enough exercise or physical activity.
• Avoid being exposed to potentially dangerous substances like: Radiation from medical equipment and cigarette smoke and flue fumes
• Provision of adequate care, support, and appropriate health services to pregnant woman for a safe and healthy pregnancy

Experts say that most of the childhood cancer are treatable, but it would be best if it will be prevented. Parents therefore play an important role in preventing childhood cancer in their children by providing optimum nutrition during the child’s first 1000 days, ensuring that they get frequent medical check-ups as they age and living a healthy lifestyle that includes a well-balanced diet coupled with physical activity. (NO II Utlang/OIC NPC Flores)

References:

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer-in-children

https://doh.gov.ph/Health-Advisory/Cancer-in-Children

https://www.facebook.com/DOHhealthypilipinas/photos/pcb.386164609701393/386164433034744