Childhood leukemia, the most common cancer among children, often begins with subtle symptoms that can easily be mistaken for ordinary illnesses. Early detection is critical, as timely diagnosis greatly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Experts stress that persistent fatigue, unexplained fevers, recurrent infections, unusual bruising, bone or joint pain, and sudden weight loss are warning signs parents should never ignore. Vigilance can be the key to giving children the best chance at recovery.
Dr Kumardeep Dutta Choudhury, Director, Medical Oncology, Max Hospital, Shalimar Bagh says, “Leukemia is the leading cancer among children, but its symptoms are subtle and often confuse parents as common illnesses. Early detection is crucial because treatment and survival rates greatly increase if it is done in time.”
“Persistent tiredness is one of the earliest signs. Kids might appear more tired, weaker, or less energetic than normal due to leukemia’s effect on the body to produce more normal red blood cells. Unexplained or frequent fevers are also a red flag as the immune system is impaired. They should also monitor recurrent infections that last longer than normal,” he further reveals.
Bleeding or bruising easily, for example, frequent nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or small red dots on the skin (petechiae), can indicate low platelet levels, one of the characteristic findings in leukemia. Likewise, bone or joint pain, commonly brushed off as “growing pains,” may be indicative of abnormal accumulation of leukemia cells in the bone marrow. Enlargement of lymph nodes, particularly in the area around the neck, armpit, or groin, and a big belly from liver or spleen swelling may also mean something is more than a mere infection.
He says, “Pale color, lack of appetite, and unintentional weight loss are other symptoms not to be ignored. Although each symptom by itself may not prove leukemia, the combination of them happening regularly is a cause for immediate medical care.”
Awareness is the best defense. Parents who remain vigilant to these small but vital changes can definitely assist with earlier diagnosis, providing their child with the best possible opportunity for recovery. Leukemia in children is tough, but if treated early, success rates are high, bringing hope and healing to families walking this tough road.
Rahul Naithani, Chief – Hematology, Oncology & Bone Marrow Transplant, Artemis Hospitals, reveals, “Leukemia in children is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. If it isn’t found early it can spread quickly. Recognising warning signs early on can have a big impact on how well treatment works. Parents are very important when it comes to noticing small changes in their child’s health.” He lists the following symptoms to watch out for:
1. Unexplained Bruising and Bleeding
If you get bruises easily, have nosebleeds, or bleed from your gums for no reason, it could mean you have low platelet counts, which is a common side effect of leukemia. Parents should keep an eye on any strange or sudden bleeding patterns.
2. Persistent Fever or Frequent Infections
Leukemia can make a child’s immune system weaker because of abnormal white blood cells. Fever, infections or illnesses that keep coming back or don’t respond well to treatment can be early signs of the disease.
3. Bone or Joint Pain
Leukemia can make bones or joints hurt because there are too many abnormal cells in the bone marrow. Kids might say their legs or arms hurt, they might limp when they walk and they might not want to move some joints.
4. Unusual Fatigue or Weakness
If your child is always tired, has low energy, or has trouble doing things they usually enjoy, it could mean that their blood isn’t carrying enough oxygen. Leukemia can lower the number of red blood cells, which can make you tired all the time, even after a good night’s sleep.
These symptoms don’t always mean you have leukemia, but you should never ignore them. Finding the problem early is important for getting the best treatment and having the best results. Being aware of these warning signs can save lives and make sure that medical care is given quickly.
Dr Gauri Kapoor, Medical Director, Pediatric Hematology & Oncology, RGCIRC, Nitibagh, says, “Leukaemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, is the most common cancer in children, accounting for nearly half of all paediatric cancer cases in India. Thanks to medical advancements, the treatment outcomes for childhood leukemia have improved greatly in recent years, with cure rates for all exceeding 80% when detected early. This remarkable progress is a testament to the power of awareness and prompt action. Parents, therefore, must be aware of any unusual changes in their child’s health, especially if they persist beyond the usual duration or multiple symptoms appear at once.”
When multiple symptoms occur or when routine medical care doesn’t work, it is important to consult a specialist without delay.