Childhood Cancer and Recovery: Every question you’ve been too afraid to ask—and the answers that bring clarity, courage, and hope.

When it comes to childhood cancer, parents often find themselves grappling with countless questions. What causes it? How does treatment affect a child’s growth, emotions, and future? To help demystify these concerns, we turned to Dr. Shweta Bansal, a highly experienced Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist and Bone Marrow Transplant Physician at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital. With over two decades of experience, she has become a pioneer in her field, performing India’s first CD45RA-depleted bone marrow transplant and establishing the hospital’s advanced Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit. Specializing in bone marrow and stem cell transplants, neuroblastoma, and leukemia, Dr. Bansal is at the forefront of introducing cutting-edge immunotherapies that ensure children receive innovative treatments with world-class care. She shares practical insights to help parents better understand and support their children through this challenging journey.

Let’s hear directly from Dr. Bansal as she answers some of the most pressing questions about childhood cancer.

 1. What is the common cause of childhood cancer?

Childhood cancers are different from adult cancers because they are rarely linked to lifestyle or environmental factors. Instead, most childhood cancers result from random changes in the DNA of growing cells, leading to uncontrolled growth. These changes are not usually inherited but occur by chance as the child develops. Some rare genetic conditions or syndromes, such as Down syndrome, may increase the risk of certain cancers, but for most children, the exact cause is unknown and not preventable.

2. Does the cancer treatment have any side effects on the physical growth and development of the child?

Yes, cancer treatments can impact a child’s growth and development. Chemotherapy might affect bone growth, while radiation therapy, especially to areas like the brain or spine, can influence height, weight, and puberty. Surgery to remove tumors could also impact physical functions if it involves critical areas.

However, the good news is that these issues are often manageable with early intervention. Follow-up in survivor clinics plays a crucial role in monitoring growth patterns, checking for delayed puberty, and offering therapies like physiotherapy or hormone treatments if needed. These clinics provide specialized care to help children reach their full potential despite these challenges.

3. Do children face any cognitive, emotional, or behavioral problems post-treatment?

Yes, some children might experience “late effects” that affect their learning, emotions, or behavior. Treatments like chemotherapy, especially if directed at the brain, or radiation can sometimes cause issues like memory problems, difficulty concentrating, or slower learning. Emotionally, children may feel anxious, scared, or even isolated because of their cancer experience.

Behavioral challenges, like mood swings or difficulty socializing, can also occur, especially if the child misses significant time in school or with peers. Survivor clinics can connect families with neuropsychologists, counselors, and support groups to help children build skills and confidence. Early support makes a big difference in ensuring the child adjusts well.

4. Does cancer treatment put a child at risk for health problems later in life? What might they be?

Yes, some treatments may increase the risk of long-term health problems, known as late effects. These depend on the type of cancer, the treatment received, and the child’s age at treatment. For example:

Heart or lung problems: Certain chemotherapies and radiation can affect heart or lung function.

Hormonal imbalances: Radiation to the brain or some chemotherapy drugs can affect glands that control hormones, potentially leading to growth issues or infertility.

Second cancers: Some treatments can slightly increase the risk of developing another cancer later in life.

These risks highlight the importance of survivor clinics, which provide regular checkups, tests, and personalized health plans to monitor and address these potential issues.

5. What are the chances of recurrence?

The likelihood of cancer returning depends on the type of cancer, how advanced it was when diagnosed, and how well it responded to treatment. Some cancers, like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), have very high cure rates (over 90%) and a low chance of recurrence. Others may have a higher risk.

The key to reducing the risk of recurrence is regular follow-ups with the oncology team. These follow-ups involve physical exams, blood tests, and scans to detect any signs of cancer early. Parents should ensure their child attends these appointments and maintain a healthy lifestyle to support their overall well-being.

Dr. Shweta Bansal’s insights underscore the importance of early intervention, specialized care, and consistent follow-ups in ensuring the best outcomes for children with cancer. Her compassionate approach and advanced treatments offer hope to families navigating this challenging journey. For parents, being informed and proactive is the first step in providing unwavering support to their little warriors. Together, with expert guidance and loving care, children can thrive and embrace a future full of possibilities.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shweta Bansal, visit https://childbloodncancerclinic.com/ or WhatsApp on https://wa.me/919967137157

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