What is Cancer?

Cancer is a malignant disease characterized by abnormal cell proliferation in the body, which can damage the originating tissue and potentially spread to nearby and distant tissues. When the proliferating cells are blood cells, the condition is termed leukemia, which is a type of blood cancer. The proliferation of cells in various organs leads to the formation of tumors specific to those organs. Childhood cancer is the third leading cause of death among children aged 1-14 in Turkiye, following heart diseases and infections.

 

Types of Cancer

Childhood cancers encompass cancer types occurring in individuals aged 0-18. Tumors are 100 times more prevalent in adults compared to children, with varying types of tumors. Leukemia stands as the most common type of childhood cancer in both Turkiye and worldwide. In previous years, lymph node cancers ranked as the second most common type, but now, similar to developed countries, brain tumors have become the second most prevalent in our country, as well. Following them, in order, are lymphoma (Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma), neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, and soft tissue sarcomas (rhabdomyosarcoma). Tumors in the bone, skin, eye, and liver are less common.

 

Cancer Prevention Strategies

• Healthy, natural, and balanced diet

• Engaging in physical activities

• Protection from environmental carcinogens

 • Avoiding radiation and magnetic fields

• Prevention of chronic infections

 

In the 1960s, only about 20% of childhood leukemias could be cured. However, today, more than 70-80% of them can be cured, and about 80% of childhood tumors can achieve complete recovery with treatment. Globally, approximately 300,000 children and young people receive their first cancer diagnosis each year. In Turkiye, approximately 3,500-4,000 children and young individuals are diagnosed with cancer annually.

 

Most Common Types of Childhood Cancer:

• Leukemia (blood cancer)

• Brain Tumor

• Lymphoma (lymph node cancer)

• Neuroblastoma (adrenal gland tumor)

• Wilms Tumor

• Sarcoma (muscle and soft tissue tumor)

• Bone Tumor

• Retinoblastoma

• Germ Cell Tumor

• Liver Tumor

 

As Polipa, we say #sarıyıfarket and invite you to raise awareness. For detailed information, visit: www.kacuv.org