About Childhood Cancer
Childhood
cancers differ in many ways from
those in adults. They develop in different parts of
the body, look different under the microscope and
respond differently to treatments. The
survival rate
for children with
cancer is much higher than it is for adults.
Childhood cancers tend to grow quickly and so are
more responsive to chemotherapy
and radiation
treatments. In resource-rich countries like
Canada, the cure rate for children with cancer is
now close to 80 per cent.
There are many types of
cancer in children but the most common childhood
cancers are leukemias (cancers of the
blood-producing tissues),
lymphomas (cancers of the lymphatic
system) and
brain tumours, whereas
skin, prostate, prostate, lung and colorectal
cancers are most common in adults.
A child’s stage
of growth and development is an important factor
when considering treatment options. Although
childhood cancers are more responsive to treatment,
cancer therapies can be harsh and may have lasting
disabling effects on
growing bodies.
The causes of
most childhood cancers are still unknown, while many
adult cancers have been linked to environmental,
occupational and live style issues such diet,
alcohol and smoking.
To read more
about childhood cancer, click here for a list of
cancer sites or
visit our alphabetical glossary of cancer
terms.
For more information on resources
and services available for families facing childhood
cancer, call us at 403.216.9210 or
email us. |
