A campaigner has highlighted nine symptoms of the most common cancer in children she claims you may not have known about.
Today (Saturday, February 15) marks International Childhood Cancer Day, a global day dedicated to raising awareness about cancer in children and young people. Although cancer in children is relatively rare – making up less than 1% of all new cases – around five children are diagnosed with the condition every day in the UK, according to Cancer Research.
The most prevalent form of cancer in children is leukaemia, which impacts the blood and bone marrow. In an effort to raise awareness, the TikTok account Unidos for Cancer shared nine warning signs of leukaemia in children that parents should be aware of, as per Mayo Clinic‘s advice.
Recurring fever or chills
Fever or chills could be a sign of many illnesses, including seasonal bugs such as cold or flu. However, if the symptoms don’t subside, they could be a sign of an underlying condition or more serious infection.
Autoimmune diseases can also cause recurrent fever or chills, as can a number of forms of cancer. If your child presents with these symptoms and they do not go away, it’s worth taking them to see a doctor to rule out anything serious.
Recurring or serious infections
A recurring infection, also known as a reinfection, is when an infection comes back after treatment. Most children with recurring infections have normal immunity – children are often exposed to viruses and bacteria at school or in play groups, so it is normal for them to get sick sometimes.
However, if your child is getting sick more frequently or more severely than usual, it’s important to see a GP. There may be nothing to worry about, but it’s a good idea to rule out any underlying conditions.
Swollen lymph nodes
Lymph nodes are located throughout the body, including the neck, armpits, chest, abdomen, and groin. They form part of the body’s lymphatic system, which helps to fight off infection.
Swollen lymph nodes are very common in children and can be caused by a number of more benign things. Common infections such as colds, chickenpox, and tonsillitis, as well as conditions like eczema and dental problems can cause glands to swell.
However, they can also be a sign of something more sinister. See your doctor if you are concerned.
Bruising or bleeding easily
Bruising or bleeding easily can be caused by a number of health conditions. These may include vitamin deficiencies, bleeding disorders such as haemophilia, liver disease and some types of cancer.
You may also be more prone to bruising as a result of your genetics. If you’ve noticed you or your child are bruising or bleeding more easily than normal, it’s worth going to a doctor.
Recurring nosebleeds
Some children are more nosebleed-prone than others, and in the majority of cases, nosebleeds have benign explanations. However, underlying health conditions can also cause seemingly unexplainable recurring nosebleeds.
Aside from cancer, nosebleeds can be caused by bleeding disorders. It’s especially important to see a doctor if the bleeding is particularly heavy or persistent.
Small red spots on the skin
These small spots can be red, purple, or brown, appearing in clusters. They are flat and do not change colour when pressed, and are most common on the arms, hands, legs and feet.
This symptom is often more noticeable on lighter skin tones. It is important to note that red spots do not mean that your child has cancer. Again, it’s best to speak with a doctor.
Extreme night sweats
Night sweats are a well-documented warning sign of cancer. However, they can also be caused by a number of other conditions, certain medications, and can also occur without any obvious explanation.
The NHS states: “Most people sweat during the night. If you regularly wake up with soaking wet sheets you should get it checked by a GP.”
Bone pain
Bone pain can feel like a deep, dull, or penetrating ache in your bones or joints. While it can be a symptom of something less sinister, such as an injury, it can also be indicative of cancer of the bones or bone marrow, or cancer that has spread to the bones (metastasis).
Unintentional weight loss
Unintentional weight loss is not just a sign of leukaemia – it can be symptomatic of a number of cancers, as well as other health issues.
According to the NHS, the most common symptoms of acute myeloid leukaemia in children and adults are: feeling tired or weak; bleeding or bruising easily or for no reason; looking more pale than usual; getting ill a lot or taking longer than usual to recover from illnesses; a high temperature; swollen glands (usually in the neck, armpits and groin); pain in the bones or joints; loss of appetite or losing weight without trying; shortness of breath; and a swollen tummy.