Childhood cancer is a significant health problem in Saudi Arabia, with thousands of children diagnosed with the disease each year. According to the latest study published by the Saudi Society of Pediatric Oncology, cancer is the second leading cause of death among children aged 1-14 years in the Kingdom, with a mortality rate of 8.7%. The incidence of childhood cancer is increasing every year, and the highest rates are among children between the ages of 5-9. It is, therefore, necessary to raise awareness and implement effective prevention and treatment strategies.
Definition of pediatric cancer:
Childhood cancer is cancer that affects children and adolescents under the age of 18. It is an umbrella term for a wide range of cancers and is the leading cause of death from the disease for this age group. It can cause abnormal cells to grow and divide rapidly, leading to the formation of tumours or disruption of the functioning of some organs in the body. Common types of childhood cancer include leukaemia, lymphomas, and brain tumours. Childhood cancer treatment often involves a combination of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and other medications. Early detection and intervention are crucial to improving outcomes for children with cancer.
Childhood cancer incidence rate:
The incidence of childhood cancer in Saudi Arabia is of great concern. Studies have shown that the incidence of childhood cancer in Saudi Arabia is higher than the global average, with an estimated 3,500 new cases of childhood cancer diagnosed each year. This can be a frightening and confusing experience for children and their families. The good news is that advances in medical technology have improved survival rates for many types of childhood cancers. The Government of Saudi Arabia has also implemented several initiatives to reduce the incidence of childhood cancer, including increasing access to healthcare and raising public awareness of the disease.
Risk factors for childhood cancer in Saudi Arabia:
Childhood cancer is a growing concern in Saudi Arabia, with the number of reported cases increasing in recent years. Risk factors for childhood cancer in the country include:
Although the exact cause of childhood cancer is not known, parents need to be aware of these potential risks in order to take steps to reduce the likelihood that their children will develop the disease.
The most common types of childhood cancer in the Kingdom:
There are many types of childhood cancer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and perhaps the most prominent of them are:
It is essential to be aware of these types of childhood cancers and their associated signs and symptoms so that they can be detected early and treated if needed.
Blood cancer:
Leukaemia is the most common type of cancer among children in Saudi Arabia. It is estimated that more than 1,500 children are diagnosed with this type of cancer each year. The cause of leukaemia in children is not yet known. However, it is believed to be related to genetic and environmental factors. Treatment for pediatric leukaemia includes chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and bone marrow transplantation. In Saudi Arabia, many specialized medical centres provide comprehensive treatments for children with leukaemia. In addition, the Saudi government has implemented initiatives to make pediatric leukaemia treatments more widely available and affordable for all families. Through these efforts, Saudi Arabia is helping ensure that all children receive the best possible leukaemia care.
Brain and nervous system cancer:
Cancer of the brain and nervous system is a serious health concern in Saudi Arabia, especially among children. In 2017, it was estimated that approximately 1,200 new cases of brain and nervous system cancer were diagnosed in Saudi Arabia each year, with the majority of these cases occurring in children aged 0-14 years. The most common brain and nervous system cancer in Saudi Arabia is medulloblastoma, a malignant tumour found in the cerebellum. Treatment for this type of cancer often includes surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. It is necessary to take steps to raise awareness of the symptoms and risk factors associated with this type of cancer, as well as to implement better treatments and preventive measures.
Lymphoma:
Lymphoma is a type of cancer of the lymphatic system and is common cancer affecting children in Saudi Arabia. It is most common in children between 2 and 14 years and is more likely to affect boys than girls. Symptoms of lymphoma include swollen lymph nodes, fever, fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and trouble breathing. Treatment for pediatric lymphoma usually involves a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. With appropriate diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis for children with lymphoma in Saudi Arabia is good, with approximately 80-90% of children reaching remission. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for a successful outcome, so parents must be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention if present.
Methods of diagnosing cancer in children in Saudi Arabia:
Diagnosing cancer in children in Saudi Arabia is a complex process. However, doctors can accurately diagnose cancer in children in Saudi Arabia and provide treatment accordingly.
There are several methods commonly used to diagnose cancer in children. These examinations include:
Treatment options for cancer in children in Saudi Arabia:
In Saudi Arabia, cancer treatment options for children vary according to the type and stage of cancer. Treatment plans may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. Some specialized treatments, such as stem cell transplantation, proton therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, are also available. In addition to conventional treatments, clinical trials may be available to provide access to new therapies. Supportive care services such as psychological counselling and diet and nutrition counselling may be offered to help families manage their children's cancer. Families should consult their healthcare team to determine the best treatment for their children.
The King Fahd National Center for Children's Cancer is one of the most advanced centres in the Kingdom that specializes in treating children with various types of cancer.
Coping Strategies for Families:
Childhood cancer is one of the most severe diseases affecting children worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, where there is still little information about the condition, parents face several challenges when their child is diagnosed.
One of the first things parents need to do is assess their child's health status. If the child has cancer, he or she will need treatment. However, treatment can be expensive and may require travel outside Saudi Arabia.
Some parents find dealing with their children's diagnosis and treatment challenging. They may experience various emotions, including sadness, anger, and fear. Some find it helpful to talk to other parents who have been through the same experience. They may also benefit from support groups or programs available in Saudi Arabia.
Following these strategies, parents can help their children adjust to their diagnosis and navigate the treatment process. They will also be able to support their children during this difficult time.
World Children's Cancer Day:
World Childhood Cancer Day is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness of childhood cancer and honoring those who fight it. This day is celebrated on the 15th of February each year and is a time to honor and support the brave young patients and their families who have been affected by this devastating disease. It is also a time to meet, share stories, collect money, and work towards better treatments. On this day, organizations worldwide host events, such as fundraisers and educational seminars, to draw attention to the plight of children battling cancer. World Children's Cancer Day is a reminder that children everywhere deserve better treatments and brighter futures.
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