Childhood Cancer Day: Every Child Deserves an Early Chance at Life

Childhood Cancer Day: Every Child Deserves an Early Chance at Life 

 Jaipur, 13th February 2026: Childhood cancer represents one of the most challenging public health issues—both emotionally and socially. Often overlooked because cancer is still widely thought of as an adult disease, it affects thousands of children in India every year, with devastating consequences for families and communities. In Rajasthan alone, around two lakh new cancer cases are reported annually, and 10 to 15 % of these are in children. This means nearly 20 to 30 thousand families in the state face a childhood cancer diagnosis each year.  

 Dr Divesh Goyal, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology, Fortis Escorts Hospital Jaipur, said: “Around 70 percent of children with cancer can recover if the disease is detected early and treated appropriately. Unfortunately, many cases reach us late due to delayed recognition of symptoms. In Rajasthan, blood cancers are the most common among children, especially in those under five years of age. Childhood Cancer Day is a reminder that early action can save young lives.” 

 Causes and Risk Factors 

• Genetic mutations rather than lifestyle factors 
• Family history of certain cancers 
• Prenatal exposures such as infections or radiation 
• Environmental factors including pesticide exposure 
• Higher vulnerability in early childhood 
• Delayed diagnosis due to low awareness 

Common Signs and Symptoms 

• Fever that does not settle or keeps returning 
• Unexplained weight loss or poor appetite 
• Ongoing bone or joint pain or constant tiredness or visible weakness 
• Repeated infections or slow recovery 
• Lumps or swelling that do not reduce 

The Need for Early Detection 

When diagnosis is delayed, the disease advances quietly and treatment becomes more complex.  When treatment is guided by a coordinated team of specialists, children have a far better chance of recovery and long-term survival. Childhood cancer may not always be preventable but with timely action and structured care, many young lives can be saved.