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This year in the U.S., approximately 9,500 children under the age of 15 are expected to be diagnosed with cancer and about 1,560 are expected to die of the disease. For all childhood cancers combined, the 5-year survival rate (1995-2001) is 79% compared to 50% in 1970.
Although childhood cancer is uncommon, it is the second leading cause of death in children, exceeded only by accidents. On the average, 1 to 2 children develop the disease each year for every 10,000 children in the U.S.
Among the 12 major types of childhood cancer, three types account for over half of new cases - lukemias (blood cell cancers), brain cancers, and other nervous system tumors. These statistics hold true nationally, as well as at Camp Little Red Door.
The cause of childhood cancer is unknown. Researchers do know that chromosome disorders account for most leukemias; and, children with Down Syndrome are known to be at a higher risk of developing leukemia. Other research points to possible high levels of exposure to radiation during pregnancy can be linked with one or more childhood cancers; as well as treatment for cancers such as Hodgkin’s disease and others can lead to second primary malignancies. Other theories of environmental causes (alcohol, tobacco, power lines) still need to be proven and are under research.
Parents should make sure that their children have regular check ups and watch for the following signs:
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- unusual swelling or mass
- unexplained paleness and loss off energy
- sudden tendency to bruise
- persistent localized pain
- prolonged and/or unexplained fever or illness
- frequent headaches ( often with vomiting)
- sudden eye or vision changes
- excessive and/or rapid weight loss
Sources:
National Cancer Institute
American Cancer Society
CureSearch
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