30/09/2025
Creating Awareness on Childhood Cancer – PML Children’s Hospital Centenary Celebration
As part of its 100th Anniversary, PML Children’s Hospital is renewing its commitment to child health by leading an intensive campaign to create awareness about childhood cancer. This initiative highlights the hospital’s century-long dedication to advancing paediatric care and protecting the lives of children across Ghana and beyond.
What is Childhood Cancer?
Childhood cancer refers to cancers that occur in children and adolescents under the age of 18. Unlike adult cancers, which are often linked to lifestyle factors, childhood cancers generally arise from changes in a child’s cells during growth and development. The most common types include leukaemia, lymphoma, neuroblastoma, Wilms’ tumour, retinoblastoma, and bone and soft tissue sarcomas.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact causes of most childhood cancers remain unknown, but several factors can increase risk:
• Genetic or inherited mutations (family history of certain cancers)
• Exposure to high doses of radiation or harmful chemicals
• Weakened immune systems from infections or congenital conditions
Unlike adult cancers, lifestyle factors such as smoking or diet rarely play a major role in childhood cancers.
Signs and Symptoms
Childhood cancers may mimic common illnesses, making awareness crucial. Warning signs include:
• Persistent, unexplained fever or weight loss
• Unusual lumps or swellings (especially in the abdomen, neck, or limbs)
• Frequent headaches or vomiting (particularly in the morning)
• Unexplained bleeding or bruising
• Fatigue, pallor, or recurrent infections
• Eye changes (white reflection in the pupil, loss of vision)
• Persistent pain in bones or joints
Prevention and Early Detection
While most childhood cancers cannot be entirely prevented, steps can reduce risk or improve outcomes:
• Early recognition of warning signs and prompt medical evaluation
• Regular health checks for children at risk due to family history
• Immunization against infections like Hepatitis B and HPV (which can reduce some cancer risks later in life)
• Safe environments – minimizing children’s exposure to harmful chemicals, toxins, and unnecessary radiation
The Importance of Early Treatment
Early diagnosis and timely referral to specialised centres like PML Children’s Hospital greatly improve survival rates. Many childhood cancers are highly curable if detected early and managed appropriately with chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, or supportive care. Alongside medical treatment, psychosocial support for children and families is crucial to recovery.
PML’s Commitment During the Centenary
As part of the centenary celebrations, PML Children’s Hospital is rolling out:
• Community education campaigns to increase public awareness
• Training sessions for health professionals on early detection and referral
• Media engagements to highlight childhood cancer success stories
• Strengthened partnerships with local and international organisations to support diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation
By focusing on childhood cancer during its 100th year, PML Children’s Hospital reaffirms its legacy of leadership in paediatric care and its vision of a future where every child has the chance to live a healthy, cancer-free life.
