Cancer is not contagious.

• Cancer cannot be spread from one child to another like flu. However children with cancer have a low immunity and can be easily infected by others. Hence they are advised not to go to crowded places and any family member who is unwell should minimize contact with these children

The cause of the most childhood cancer is unknown

• At least 95 % of the cancers in children occur spontaneously.

Most childhood cancers are curable

• For example, in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, which is a common form of leukemia for children can be cured with chemotherapy alone. A successful outcome is possible with the use of standard therapy in established centers, a positive attitude and a determination to overcome the cancer. Outcome is better in children who are treated early. Childhood cancers are not a death sentence.

Children with cancer can still have a life like a normal childhood

• Children with cancer can lead a normal childhood. . Most children with cancer are encouraged to return to school as soon as their health condition permits. In other cases, the children and their families adapt and modify their lifestyle to achieve normalcy. This becomes much easier with care, understanding and support from family, teachers, friends and other caregivers.

Not all tumors are cancerous

• Tumors can be benign or malignant. Malignant tumors are cancerous cells and benign tumors are not. Malignant can invade and spread to other parts of the body. In contrast, benign tumors invade tissues surrounding it and generally do not spread.

Updated:: 08/04/2019 []