Childhood cancer is a life threatening condition which can be treated if detected early. It happens when the cells in the  body grow abnormally and occurs without a clear cause and is not contagious.

Childhood cancer is different from adulthood cancer as it is not caused by lifestyle habits like smoking or diet, it grows faster but also responds better to treatment.

The commonest childhood cancers include cancer of the blood(leukaemia), brain tumours, lymphomas, bone cancers, eye tumours and kidney tumours

Many symptoms of childhood cancer look similar to those of common childhood illness and include among others: Unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, frequent infections, unusual bleeding, persistent bone or joint pain, lump or swelling in the neck, white reflection in the eye, severe or persistent headache, sudden vision or balance problems.

If these symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, consult a doctor.

Childhood cancer is treated with chemotherapy(medicines that kill cancer),surgery, radiation therapy and targeted immune therapies. Children usually recover fully, return to school and grow up and live normal lives

As parents, you know your child best. If something does not feel right, it is always okay to seek medical advice.

Awareness is powerful. Together, we can ensure children get the care they need, as early as possible

by Dr. Rhoda Nakiriba Mayega – Head of Department