No one wants their child to get cancer, no matter what stage of life they’re in. The reality is, cancer can affect anyone at any time — but did you know that teaching your child certain healthy habits can help reduce their risk of cancer later in life? “It is never too early to learn…
It’s an unfortunate fact: Childhood cancer rates have been on the rise for the past few decades. Here are some of the top facts to know about childhood cancer: 10 childhood cancer facts Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in children ages 1 to 14. (Accidents account for the most deaths among children, according…
What is low-grade glioma? Low-grade gliomas (LGGs) are the most common brain tumors in children. A glioma is a type of tumor that starts in the brain or spinal cord, and low-grade means that the cancer grows at a slower rate. A low-grade glioma begins in the glial cells, which help the neurons in the…
Neuroblastoma is a rare type of childhood cancer that starts in the nerve cells of the sympathetic nervous system, and usually affects infants and children under age 5. The average age of diagnosis is 18 months. Around 800 new cases of neuroblastoma are diagnosed in the U.S. each year. Neuroblastoma can be difficult to diagnose…
Cyclic neutropenia is a rare disorder that happens when the blood doesn’t have enough neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that aids in fighting bacteria. “In cyclic neutropenia, a child experiences regular episodes of low neutrophils, which make them more susceptible to bacterial infections,” said Ashok B. Raj, M.D., pediatric hematologist/oncologist with Norton Children’s Cancer…
Methotrexate and vincristine are complex words for most, but 7-year-old Beckham Goodale knows them and can pronounce them just as well as any doctor. They’re words no child should know, but this is the reality of pediatric cancer. Methotrexate and vincristine are Beckham’s chemotherapy treatments. He’s been battling acute lymphoblastic leukemia since December 2020. In…
Thirty-nine years ago, Diane Burnett, APRN, wasn’t sure she was cut out to care for kids with cancer and blood disorders. Give it a year, she figured. “I didn’t know if I would be a good fit for that,” Diane said. As it turned out, she was, and Diane’s job became a passion. One year…
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, it can be overwhelming for the patient and their entire family. Parents likely will have many questions, especially in the beginning, and providers encourage them to be inquisitive during appointments. “Our patients’ families should feel empowered to ask us questions,” said Ashok B. Raj, M.D., pediatric hematologist/oncologist with…
The added benefits of exercise for survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) can include psychological well-being, improved quality of life and lower risk of long-term effects — like broken bones or chronic diseases — from their treatment. Decreased anxiety and help with social integration are also benefits of exercise for ALL survivors, in addition to…
Olivia “Liv” Miller was an active toddler and constantly on the go. When she started showing signs of fatigue and generally not being herself, her mother and father took her to their pediatrician in Owensboro, Kentucky. Olivia had come down with pneumonia along with tonsillitis. The decision was made to remove her tonsils and adenoids….
When a child is diagnosed with cancer and has to start chemotherapy, it can be overwhelming for the entire family. Preparing, however, and arriving at the Norton Children’s Infusion Center with a “chemo bag” — filled with practical and comforting items from home — can help reduce stress for both the child and parent. “Our…
Children with cancer were more likely to experience severe COVID-19 symptoms than other children, according to a first-of-its-kind worldwide study. One in 5 children with cancer had severe or critical COVID-19, and 1 in 25 died, according to health data gathered in 45 countries. In the general population, severe COVID-19 has been reported in only…