Every day, 43 children are diagnosed with childhood cancer. The majority of these diagnoses come when little ones are around six years old. If you and your family are affected by this condition, you may wonder about other people in your community who are facing similar challenges. To help you understand the wide scope of this disease and those who are impacted by it, here is a brief overview of some of the most common cancer diagnoses in children.

Common Types of Childhood Cancer & Their Treatments 

1. Leukemia

Leukemia is a cancer in the blood and bone marrow. According to the American Cancer Society, this accounts for almost one third of childhood cancer, with the most common type being acute lymphocytic leukemia, which starts in the white blood cells. It may be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy, or immunotherapy. 

2. Brain & Central Nervous System Tumors

This is the second most common type of cancer in children, accounting for around 26% of diagnoses. These are tumors in the brain and on the spinal area. Most start in the lower part of the brain, including the stem or cerebellum. They may be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted drug therapy. Treatment type depends on the location and size of the tumor.

3. Neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma accounts for around 6% of reported pediatric cancers. It develops in infants or very young children, rarely occurring in those over the age of ten. This is because it begins with the nerve cells in a developing fetus. It may be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, retinoid therapy, or immunotherapy.

4. Wilms Tumor

Wilms tumor, or nephroblastoma, starts in the kidneys. It often occurs in children between the age of three and six. Overall, about nine of out ten children with Wilms tumors are cured. They typically get more than one type of treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. 

If your young one has been diagnosed with a childhood cancer, you will find support at Leaps of Love in Highland, IL. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to assisting families who have been affected by this disease. They offer community through retreats, social events, and workshops at no cost to you. They also give you an opportunity to meet other parents and children going through similar experiences. Learn more about their work online or call (618) 410-7212 to join a retreat.