Parents and guardians are urged to seek medical attention if their child exhibits symptoms such as fever, frequent headaches, or unexplained weight loss, as these could be indicative of childhood cancers. Dr. Sherelyn Stanton from the Pediatric Medicine Department at Georgetown Public Hospital emphasizes the importance of early intervention.
Childhood cancers are the second leading cause of death among children and adolescents under 14 years old. These can manifest as acute Leukemia affecting bones, heart, and muscles, brain cancer leading to seizures, and lymphoma cancer causing swelling in lymph nodes. Due to their common symptoms like fever, night sweats, chills, and fatigue, these cancers can often go unnoticed.
Dr. Stanton stresses the significance of consulting a pediatrician for timely diagnosis and treatment. While there isn’t a specific screening test for childhood cancers, medical practitioners are well-equipped to detect them based on treatment options.
Dr. Narine Singh, Chief Medical Officer at the Ministry of Health, affirms that Guyana has access to diagnostic resources and medications for various cancers.
September marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, serving as an annual reminder to educate the public about these conditions and emphasize early prevention.
Trichell Sobers, NCN NEWS