Cancer Detection and Signs in Children

Cancer is fairly uncommon in children; however, it remains one of the leading causes of death for this age group. Learn cancer detection and signs in children to know what to look for in case the disease starts to develop.

Signs and symptoms of cancer

Children get sick fairly often, but if your child has an infection or illness that is not going away it could be a sign of cancer. Obvious growths and masses are also a sign of cancer, as is unexplained bone pain. Many children with cancer have a lack of appetite and may begin losing weight. Losing weight is not normal for children, so consult your physician if you notice your child has any unexplained weight loss.

Cancer detection in children

Depending on the type of cancer symptoms a child has, there are a variety of cancer detection methods. When a child has bone pain, a physician often orders x-rays, CT scans or MRI scans. Biopsies of growths and masses are also commonly performed to try to detect the growth of cancer. Specialized blood tests are requested as they can sometimes tell how far along the cancer is at a certain point.

All parents should know the most common symptoms of childhood cancers, such as unexplained weight loss, bone pain and growths on the body. Many of these symptoms are not indicative of cancer but consult a physician to rule out any possible life threatening conditions. Do not let your child suffer because you do not know what to look for.