Last Update: February 15, 2023, 06:30 IST
International Childhood Cancer Day 2023: According to WHO, more than 4,00,000 children are diagnosed with cancer every year. (Representational Image: Shutterstock)
International Children’s Cancer Day is observed on 15 February to raise awareness about different types of cancer in children as well as their treatment and diagnosis.
International Children’s Cancer Day 2023: The day promotes awareness of pediatric cancer, sympathizes with all children affected by the disease and their families. It recognizes their problems, while providing them with space to assimilate and reflect. Childhood cancer is not only distressing, but it also requires specialized therapy and care. Pediatric oncology is a branch of medicine that deals with cancer in children, and designs therapy and pain management solutions.
International Children’s Cancer Day was also established to reduce the pain and suffering caused by cancer in children all over the world and to increase cure rates. The day emphasizes the importance of proper access to cancer care for children who are diagnosed or have survived the disease.
It aims to guarantee that children around the world have access to the best available treatment and can overcome the challenges that cancer brings to their lives. The campaign seeks to make pediatric cancer a global priority. It strives to achieve a 60% survival rate for children diagnosed with cancer in collaboration with the WHO Global Initiative on Childhood Cancer.
Leukemia (which affects the blood and bone marrow) and lymphoma (which affects the immune system, brain, and spinal cord) are the most prevalent types of childhood cancer.
International Child Cancer Day 2023: Symptoms
The most typical signs that parents and guardians should look for in their children include the following, although they vary by cancer type:
- unexplained lump or swelling
- excessive bruising or bleeding
- socially withdrawn, such as fatigue, lethargy, and behavioral changes
- unexplained pain and weight loss
- dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
- recurring fever and pallor
- sudden change in vision
- swollen lymph nodes
- frequent headaches with vomiting
- limping or refusing to walk
According to WHO, more than 4,00,000 children are diagnosed with cancer every year. It is less common in wealthier countries; But there, it has a cure rate of more than 80 percent. In low- and middle-income countries, the same scenario appears quite different and opposite, with a survival rate of only 20%.
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