calender_icon.png 13 September, 2025 | 4:24 AM

‘India sees 50 to 75 thousand new childhood cancer cases annually’

13-09-2025 02:34:37 AM

India reports 50,000 to 75,000 new childhood cancer cases annually, contributing to over 400,000 cases globally. Experts warn that by 2030, cancer cases worldwide may reach 20 million. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, emphasizing the urgent need for early detection and treatment.

Doctors at Kamineni Hospital, LB Nagar, stress early diagnosis as crucial for effective treatment. Dr. Annie Q. Hasan notes that leukemia, lymphoma, and brain tumors are the most common childhood cancers. Genetic conditions like Neurofibromatosis, Retinoblastoma, and Down syndrome increase cancer risk through gene mutations or chromosomal abnormalities. Pediatricians often recommend genetic counseling and testing for early identification.

Dr. Kanchan S Channawar explains some cancers, especially leukemia and lymphoma, can start before birth and grow rapidly. Factors such as prenatal radiation, infections like EBV, pollution, and parental habits contribute. Warning signs include unexplained fever, weight loss, joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, and pale skin.

Dr. S Jayanthi highlights that 5% of India’s pediatric cancers come from Telugu states, with 5–10% hereditary. Early consultation is vital if symptoms like lumps or bleeding occur. Kamineni Hospital provides comprehensive diagnostics and free treatment under Aarogyasri.