Swavalamban Blog

Childhood Cancer: signs, symptoms and its Rehabilitation

International Childhood Cancer Day 15 Feb 2015 has been observed to raise awareness about childhood cancer, and to express support for children and adolescents with cancer, the survivors and their families. The day promotes increased appreciation and deeper understanding of issues and challenges impacting childhood cancer and the survivors. It also spotlights the need for more equitable and better access to treatment and care for all children with cancer.
Cancers in children can be hard to recognize right away because early symptoms are often like those caused by much more common illnesses or injuries.

The common Signs ans Symptoms to look out for:

  • An unusual lump or swelling
  • Unexplained paleness and loss of energy
  • Easy bruising
  • An ongoing pain in one area of the body
  • Limping
  • Unexplained fever or illness that doesn’t go away
  • Frequent headaches, often with vomiting
  • Sudden eye or vision changes
  • Sudden unexplained weight loss
The types of cancers that occur most often in children are different from those seen in adults. The most common cancers of children are:
  • leukemia
  • Brain and other CNS Tumors
  • Neuroblastoma
  • Lymphoma 
  • Retinoblastoma
  • Bone cancer

Treatments are chosen for childhood cancers based mainly on the type and stage or extent of the cancer. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other types of treatment. In many cases, more than one of these treatments is used.

Occupational therapists have a vital role in rehabilitation of children  having cancer. They focuses on improving patients’ strength, balance and endurance, as well as fine motor and cognitive skills, to restore their previous level of independence. To facilitate independence and a smooth transition back to the community and school, occupational therapists help patients focus on daily living skills like caring for themselves, brushing their teeth, and getting dressed.This may involve teaching new or adaptive techniques for methods of self-care, preparing and eating meals, functional mobility or to perform recreational activities.