Cancer is a word no parent wants to hear, especially when it concerns their child. While childhood cancers are relatively rare, they do occur—and understanding the most common types can help with early detection, diagnosis, and prompt treatment.
This guide offers a clear overview of the cancers that most frequently affect children and how Dr Kriti Hegde and her team provide specialised care and support every step of the way.
If you notice any persistent or unusual symptoms in your child, please don’t wait. Early action can make all the difference.
We understand how overwhelming this can feel, and we’re here to support you with expert care and compassionate guidance every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Why Childhood Cancers Are Different
Unlike adult cancers, childhood cancers are usually not linked to lifestyle or environmental factors. They often develop suddenly, grow rapidly, and require different treatment strategies. Early recognition of symptoms and swift medical attention are crucial in improving outcomes.
1. Leukemia
Leukemia is the most common childhood cancer, accounting for about one-third of all pediatric cancer cases.
Types:
🗹 Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) – most common in young children
🗹 Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) – less common but more aggressive
Common Symptoms:
🗹 Fatigue and weakness
🗹 Frequent infections
🗹 Pale skin
🗹 Easy bruising or bleeding
🗹 Bone or joint pain
Treatment:
Chemotherapy is the primary treatment, often followed by maintenance therapy. In some cases, bone marrow transplantation may be recommended.
2. Brain and Central Nervous System Tumors
Brain tumors are the second most common cancer in children. They vary widely in location, type, and severity.
Common Types:
🗹 Medulloblastomas
🗹 Gliomas
🗹 Ependymomas
Symptoms Depend on Tumor Location:
🗹 Persistent headaches
🗹 Nausea and vomiting
🗹 Vision or balance problems
🗹 Seizures
🗹 Behavioural changes
Treatment:
Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are often used, depending on the tumor’s type and location.
3. Lymphoma
Lymphomas affect the lymphatic system, which plays a role in immunity. These cancers are divided into:
🗹 Hodgkin Lymphoma – more common in adolescents
🗹 Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) – often seen in younger children
Common Symptoms:
🗹 Swollen lymph nodes (neck, armpit, groin)
🗹 Unexplained fever
🗹 Night sweats
🗹 Weight loss
🗹 Breathing difficulties
Treatment:
Typically, it includes chemotherapy and sometimes radiation therapy. Early detection leads to highly successful treatment rates.
4. Neuroblastoma
Neuroblastoma usually affects children under age 5 and arises from immature nerve cells, most often around the adrenal glands.
Common Signs:
🗹 Abdominal swelling
🗹 Bone pain
🗹 Lumps under the skin
🗹 Eye changes (dark circles, bulging eyes)
Treatment:
Varies depending on risk level—options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, stem cell transplant, and immunotherapy.
5. Wilms Tumor
Wilms Tumor is a kidney cancer found almost exclusively in children, typically around age 3 to 4.
Symptoms:
🗹 Swelling or lump in the abdomen
🗹 Fever
🗹 Blood in urine
🗹 Constipation
Treatment:
Surgery to remove the kidney, followed by chemotherapy and sometimes radiation therapy.
6. Bone Cancers
Primary bone cancers are more common in adolescents and can develop during growth spurts.
Most Common Types:
🗹 Osteosarcoma – typically in the arms, legs, or pelvis
🗹 Ewing Sarcoma – often found in the spine, ribs, or pelvis
Signs to Watch For:
🗹 Bone pain that worsens over time
🗹 Swelling near joints
🗹 Limping or decreased limb function
Treatment:
Usually, it involves a combination of chemotherapy and surgery and sometimes radiation.
7. Retinoblastoma
This rare eye cancer primarily affects children under age 5 and can occur in one or both eyes.
Warning Signs:
🗹 A white glow in the pupil in photographs
🗹 Crossed or wandering eyes
🗹 Eye redness or swelling
Treatment:
Treatment may include chemotherapy, laser therapy, radiation, or surgery—often depending on how early it’s detected.
8. Rhabdomyosarcoma
This cancer starts in muscle tissue and can occur almost anywhere in the body.
Common Symptoms:
🗹 Swelling or a lump that may or may not be painful
🗹 Eye swelling or drooping (if in the head or neck)
🗹 Difficulty urinating or bowel changes (if in the pelvis or abdomen)
Treatment:
Chemotherapy, surgery, and sometimes radiation therapy are used depending on the tumor’s location and stage.
Why Early Diagnosis Makes All the Difference
Most symptoms of childhood cancers can easily be mistaken for less serious conditions. That’s why persistent, unusual, or worsening signs should never be ignored. The earlier the cancer is detected, the more effective the treatment can be.
Dr Kriti’s Expert Care
Dr Kriti Hegde provides advanced and compassionate care for children diagnosed with haematological and oncological disorders. With a deep understanding of pediatric cancer types and the latest treatments, her approach focuses on clinical outcomes and emotional and family-centered support.
About Us
At Dr Kriti Hegde’s pediatric oncology clinic, we specialise in diagnosing and treating childhood cancers with a personalised, multidisciplinary approach.
“I have advanced training in bone marrow transplant and cellular therapies from leading centres in India and the UK, which allows me to manage even the most complex cases with confidence and precision. I believe in a holistic, team-based approach to paediatric cancer care—one that supports not just the child, but their entire family, every step of the way.”
🗹 Dr Kriti Hegde
Book a Consultation
If your child is experiencing persistent or unusual symptoms, or if you’ve received a diagnosis and are looking for expert care, we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today to begin your child’s journey to recovery with confidence and support.