Only localized, solid tumors can be treated successfully in children.

Myth.

Survival rates for the four major childhood blood cancers are continuing to rise, according to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (9/08). Researchers found that five- and 10-year survival rates for U.S. children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, Hodgkin's lymphoma, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma are approximately 90%. On the other hand, the survival rates for solid tumors such as bone cancers have shown little improvement in the past two decades.

There is often a delay diagnosing adolescents and young adults (ages 13 and up) with cancer.

Fact.

Most people don't think "cancer" for apparently simple "growing pains" in this age group. For this reason, many adolescents and young adults receive the cancer diagnosis much later than their younger counterparts. Other potential reasons identified for this lag time include lack of health insurance, the psychosocial need to be independent, symptoms that are not specific enough to lead to an early diagnosis, and the age group is less likely to seek medical attention. Research underway at the Children's Cancer Hospital is examining these factors, as well as looking at the unique, and best, ways to treat this age group. Several research studies support that adolescents and young adults with cancer respond better to pediatric treatment protocols in comparison to adult protocols.

Treatment for pediatric cancer is difficult and survivors have little chance of leading a normal life following treatment.

Myth.

Most children with pediatric cancer go onto live healthy, successful lives and many go onto to have children of their own. Support and quality of life programs let kids be kids while they are undergoing treatment. For example, the Children's Cancer Hospital offers an on-site school so that pediatric patients can keep up with their normal schoolwork. Special summer camp and winter ski trips also give young patients the confidence that they can do anything they put their mind to. A survivor clinic continues to monitor patients for secondary health conditions as a result of their treatment and new cancers for years after they have completed treatment.

SOURCE The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston