Cancer is generally associated with adults, but children can also develop certain types, making childhood cancer a growing global concern. Though rare, its incidence is rising worldwide and poses a severe emotional and physical impact on families. Research shows that boys are slightly more vulnerable than girls to cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, brain tumors, and neuroblastoma, while Wilms’ tumor appears more frequently in girls. The reasons for this difference are still being studied, with biological, environmental, and genetic factors likely playing a role. While lifestyle risks common in adults are not usually relevant in children, prenatal health, environmental exposures, and certain infections can influence risk, highlighting the importance of awareness and preventive strategies.Childhood cancer remains rare but increasingly significant worldwide. Scientific research emphasizes that while not every case is preventable, strategic measures during pregnancy, early childhood, and adolescence can help reduce risk.
Childhood cancer in boys vs girls
The PMC study “The association between sex and most childhood cancers is not mediated by birthweight” analyzed over 12,000 childhood cancer cases in the US It found that male sex is linked to higher risks for cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, while some cancers are less common in boys. Birthweight did not explain these differences, suggesting sex-specific biological factors play a key role.Research shows that specific childhood cancers—such as leukemia, lymphoma, brain tumors, and neuroblastoma—occur more frequently in boys. An exception is Wilms’ tumor, a kidney cancer, which tends to appear slightly more in girls.The reasons behind these gender differences are still being explored, but several factors may contribute:
- Biological differences: Variations in hormone regulation and immune system function may influence susceptibility.
- Environmental exposures: Boys might be more vulnerable to pollutants, toxins, or prenatal environmental factors.
- Genetic influences: Certain genetic variations could increase the likelihood of developing specific cancers, though evidence remains incomplete.
Childhood cancer risk factors
Unlike adult cancers, lifestyle-related behaviors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, or poor diet are generally not significant contributors in children. Research suggests that factors like prenatal exposures, maternal health during pregnancy, infections, and specific genetic conditions can influence the risk of childhood cancer.While not all childhood cancers can be prevented, studies highlight meaningful ways to reduce risk through environmental, nutritional, and lifestyle measures during pregnancy, early childhood, and adolescence.
How to reduce childhood cancer risk
Scientific studies suggest that maternal health and nutrition during pregnancy can affect cancer risk in children. Recommended practices include:
- Limiting caffeine intake to fewer than two cups of coffee per day, which has been associated with reduced risk of
childhood leukemia . - Consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables, ensuring at least two servings of fresh fruits daily to provide antioxidant protection.
- Avoiding frequent consumption of grilled, barbecued, smoked, or deep-fried foods.
- Taking prenatal vitamins containing folic acid, which may help lower risks of leukemia and brain tumors.
- Maintaining a healthy weight and regular physical activity to promote fetal well-being.
- Limiting alcohol and avoiding tobacco exposure during pregnancy, including passive exposure from family members.
- Breastfeeding when possible, as studies indicate a lower leukemia risk in children, particularly with breastfeeding for six months or longer.
- Prioritising clean, balanced nutrition with whole grains, lentils, nuts, and fresh home-cooked meals over highly processed foods.
Early childhood practices for cancer risk reduction
During the early years, environmental safety and healthy routines are crucial in minimizing cancer risk:
- Encouraging outdoor play and physical activity while limiting screen time.
- Reducing exposure to pesticides and household chemicals.
- Protecting children from air pollution, particularly in dense traffic areas linked with higher leukemia risk.
- Avoiding unnecessary medical imaging like X-rays or CT scans.
- Using sunscreen for outdoor activities to prevent UV-related damage.
- Monitoring children with infections or genetic conditions such as Down syndrome, HIV, or Epstein-Barr virus more closely.
- Screening siblings of children with hereditary cancers, such as retinoblastoma, for early detection.
Adolescent lifestyle measures
For teenagers, scientific evidence points to preventive strategies that combine vaccination, education, and nutrition:
- Vaccinations against Hepatitis B (HBV) and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) can reduce cancer risk later in life.
- Education on the dangers of smoking and secondhand smoke exposure is crucial.
- Open discussions about safe sexual practices contribute to overall health.
- Maintaining a balanced diet with at least two-thirds plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes, while limiting animal protein intake, supports long-term health.
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