Cancer is a dangerous disease that can affect anyone, including children. Cancer in children is a disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth, can damage surrounding tissues or even spread to other organs and occurs at the age of under 18 years.
Data shows that the most common cancers in children in Indonesia are leukemia (blood cancer), retinoblastoma (eye cancer), and osteosarcoma (bone cancer).
Currently, it is not known for certain the single cause of various types of cancer in children. The incidence of cancer is thought to be triggered by many factors such as genetic factors, exposure to air pollution, cigarette smoke, radiation, pesticides, and chemical solutions such as paint. In contrast to cancer in adults, cancer in children is more difficult to detect because children in general have not been able to express what they feel.
Therefore, it is very important to recognize the early signs & symptoms of early cancer findings in children.
1. Paleness, bruising, or bleeding and bone pain
2. Visible lump or swelling that is not painful
3. Changes in the eye such as white beads, squint, loss of vision
4. A bulging stomach
5. Weight loss or fever for no apparent reason, persistent cough & night sweats
6. Persistent headache and vomiting (may worsen from day to day).

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Penulis : Wirawati Nirwani (Dokter Konsulen Medis Laboratorium Klinik Pramita Cabang Jl. Amir Mahmud No. 460 Cimahi)