Cancer is a devastating disease that affects millions of people worldwide. However, it is not as common in children and adolescents as it is in adults.

According to the American Cancer Society, childhood and adolescent cancers account for less than 1% of all new cancer cases in the United States each year. This article aims to explore the reasons why cancer is rare in these age groups and to discuss some of the most common childhood and adolescent cancers.

Why is Cancer Rare in Children and Adolescents?

The reasons why cancer is less common in children and adolescents than in adults are not fully understood. However, there are several factors that may contribute to this rarity:.

: Immune System

Children and adolescents have strong immune systems that can fight cancer cells more effectively than adult immune systems.

Their immune systems are also less likely to be weakened by other diseases or environmental factors, which can increase the risk of cancer development.

: Cell Division

Cancer is caused by abnormal cell division, but children and adolescents have more active cells than adults, so there are fewer opportunities for abnormal cell division to occur.

: Genetics

Children and adolescents are less likely to have acquired genetic mutations that can lead to cancer. They are born with relatively clean genetic slates, and it takes time for mutations to accumulate and lead to cancer development.

Common Childhood and Adolescent Cancers

While cancer may be rare in children and adolescents, some types of cancer are more common in these age groups than in adults. Here are some of the most common childhood and adolescent cancers:.

: Leukemia

Leukemia is the most common childhood cancer, accounting for about 30% of all childhood cancers. It is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow that can affect both children and adults, but it is more common in children.

The most common types of leukemia in children are acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

: Brain and Central Nervous System Tumors

Tumors that develop in the brain and the central nervous system are the second most common type of childhood cancer, accounting for about 26% of childhood cancers.

These tumors can be benign or malignant and can cause a wide range of symptoms depending on their location and size. The most common brain and central nervous system tumors in children are medulloblastomas, ependymomas, and astrocytomas.

: Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. It can affect both children and adults, but it is more common in children. The two main types of lymphoma in children are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

: Neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma is a rare type of cancer that develops in nerve cells and can occur in various parts of the body. It is the third most common childhood cancer, accounting for about 7% of all childhood cancers.

Neuroblastoma can affect infants and young children and is more common in males than females.

: Wilms Tumor

Wilms tumor is a type of kidney cancer that affects children, usually between the ages of 3 and 4. It is a rare cancer that accounts for less than 1% of all childhood cancers.

Wilms tumor is highly treatable if caught early, and most children with this type of cancer are cured.

Conclusion

The rarity of cancer in children and adolescents is a blessing, but it does not mean that we should ignore the importance of early detection and treatment.

Childhood and adolescent cancers require specialized treatments and care, and it is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of the warning signs and to seek medical attention if they suspect that something is wrong. By working together with medical professionals, we can give children and adolescents the best possible chance of beating cancer and living healthy, happy lives.