February 15th marks International Childhood Cancer Day. Data from the National Cancer Registry Center reveals that childhood cancer incidence in China is rising at an annual rate of 2.8%, making it the second leading cause of death among children. Yet public awareness of pediatric tumors remains alarmingly low, with three major misconceptions prevalent—parents must stay vigilant.
First: The Physical Examination Misconception
Due to the relatively low incidence of childhood tumors, many parents lack relevant knowledge and do not schedule regular health checkups for their children. Often, small lumps are discovered by parents only when bathing their children. It is recommended that parents gently check their child's body for any lumps during bath time and ideally arrange for regular health screenings.
Second: Belief that childhood tumors are incurable
Wang Ying, Director of Radiation Oncology at Chongqing Cancer Hospital, explains that childhood tumors actually have a higher clinical cure rate than adult tumors. With appropriate, standardized comprehensive treatment, nearly 70% of childhood tumors can be cured. This is because most childhood tumors originate from mesodermal or mesenchymal tissue cells, which are more sensitive to radiation and chemotherapy;Children's psychological development is immature, so they carry less psychological burden; Children are in a growth and development phase, allowing for faster physical recovery after treatment.
Third, misconceptions about radiotherapy
Most parents view surgery as the primary treatment for tumors, considering radiotherapy and chemotherapy merely as adjunctive therapies to surgery. They only consider radiotherapy and chemotherapy when surgery is not feasible, often causing many pediatric patients to miss the optimal treatment window.
Regarding childhood cancer prevention, Wang Ying advises expectant mothers to minimize illness during the first trimester, avoid unnecessary antibiotics, and steer clear of electromagnetic radiation, ionizing radiation, and toxic substances like benzene and formaldehyde found in renovation pollutants. Children should develop healthy dietary and lifestyle habits early on, avoid polluted environments, and reduce cancer risks.