Overview of Pediatric Cancer:

• Incidence: Pediatric cancer is relatively rare, accounting for about 1% of all cancer diagnoses. However, it is the leading cause of death by disease in children aged 1 to 19 in many developed countries.
• Types: The most common types of pediatric cancer include leukemia (cancer of the blood and bone marrow), brain tumors, neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor (kidney cancer), lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system), and various sarcomas (cancers of the bone, soft tissues, and muscles).
• Causes: The exact causes of pediatric cancer are not well understood. While some genetic and environmental factors may play a role, most cases occur without a clear cause.

Latest Treatment Options (as of 2021):

• Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor is often the first step in treating pediatric cancer. Advances in surgical techniques and tools have made procedures safer and more effective.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy, the use of drugs to kill cancer cells, remains a standard treatment for many pediatric cancers. Ongoing research focuses on developing more targeted and less toxic chemotherapy drugs.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy is used to target and kill cancer cells with high-energy radiation. Advances in radiation technology aim to minimize damage to healthy tissues.
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy has shown promise in treating certain pediatric cancers. It involves boosting the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, for instance, has been successful in treating some pediatric leukemias.
• Precision Medicine: Genomic sequencing allows doctors to identify specific genetic mutations driving a child’s cancer. This information helps tailor treatment with targeted therapies, such as kinase inhibitors, to attack the cancer at its source.
• Stem Cell Transplantation: Some pediatric cancers, particularly leukemias and lymphomas, require stem cell or bone marrow transplants to replace damaged cells with healthy ones.
• Supportive Care: Advances in supportive care have improved the management of treatment-related side effects, enhancing the quality of life for young cancer patients.
• Clinical Trials: Pediatric oncology research relies heavily on clinical trials to test new therapies and approaches. Participation in these trials can offer access to cutting-edge treatments.

It’s important to note that the field of pediatric oncology is dynamic, with ongoing research and developments. The treatment options available to children with cancer continue to evolve, offering hope for improved outcomes and reduced long-term side effects. For the most current information on pediatric cancer and treatment options, it’s advisable to consult with a pediatric oncologist or refer to the latest medical literature and updates from reputable sources.

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Dr. Balaji Shewalkar is a consultant Oncologist in Beed Bypass Road, Aurangabad. He is currently practicing at Kamalnayan Bajaj Hospital in Beed Bypass Road, Aurangabad. Dr. Balaji Shewalkar is a qualified Oncologist in Beed Bypass Road. As a Oncologist, his area of expertise includes cancer treatment, Blood Cancer, Breast Cancer, Gastrointestinal Cancer, Gynae Oncology, Head & Neck Cancer, Hepatobiliary Cancer, Lung cancer, Medical etc. Patients from all around Beed Bypass Road and entire Aurangabad come to Dr. Balaji Shewalkar with lots of hopes and the doctor ensures that the patients are satisfied with the treatments, with his experience and the techniques he uses as a Oncologist.

2. Dr. Arvind Gaikwad

Dr. Arvind Gaikwad. Post: OSD (Officer on Special Duty) at Government cancer hospital, Aurangabad.Qualification: M.D., P.G.D.H.A.M., FIPHA, L.L.B., M.A.(Pali & Buddhism). He is one of the best and honest oncologist in Aurangabad.

3) Dr. Anup Toshniwal

Dr. Anup Toshniwal is an Experienced Cancer Doctor in Aurangabad. He has completed his M.D. Medicine from Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, and DM Medical Oncology from Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. He has done an MBBS from Government Medical College, Aurangabad. He has extensive experience in diagnosis and management of all types of cancers, all hematological cancers, and also performing procedures like bone marrow biopsies, lumbar puncture, thoracocentesis, etc. Dr. Anup Toshniwal is well known Cancer Specialist in Aurangabad for his compassionate and friendly attitude towards his patients. His motto is to provide affordable, best and evidence-based cancer treatment for his patients.

4) Dr. Prashant Surkar

Dr. Prashant Surkar is a well-known radiation oncologist in Satara Parisar, Aurangabad. He completed his MBBS at Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik in 2008. He did his DNB in Radiotherapy at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Center, Delhi in 2017. He has extensive experience of close to five years in planning and treatment of patients with external beam radiation. Kamalnayan Bajaj Hospital is the first Center to start a Radiotherapy facility with a linear accelerator in the region.

5) Dr. Tushar Mule

Dr. Tushar Mule is a highly experienced Cancer Specialist in Aurangabad. He is a Specialist in Head and Neck, Lung, Breast, Prostate, Bone Gastrointestinal, Genitourinary & Hematolymphoid Cancer, and also Specialist in Chemotherapy Target & Immunotherapy. Dr. Tushar Mule treated thousands of patients suffering from Cancer. He is one of the few oncologists in Aurangabad who perform Minimal Access (keyhole) Surgery to offer his patients a smooth & pain-free recovery from Cancer. Dr. Tushar Mule treated thousands of patients suffering from Cancer. He often completely revises the diagnoses with which patients came from abroad. In many cases (for example, when the patient was found not in the 4th, but the 3rd stage of cancer), this saved the patient’s life. Dr. Tushar Mule devotes to the development of regional chemotherapy techniques: it allows minimizing the effect of chemotherapy drugs on the whole body because the drug is injected only into the artery that supplies the tumor with blood.

6) Dr. Tushar Idhate

MBBS, MD – Pediatrics, Fellowship in Hematology and Pediatric Oncology (FHPO). He works in MGM Hospital, Aurangabad.

7) Dr. Navin Kasaliwal

Dr. Navin Kasliwal Completed Ms- General Surgery from Grant Medical College, JJ Hospital, Mumbai. Underwent post graduate training in cancer surgery at the Tata Memorial Centre for 4 years. Has completed Fellowship in Thoracic Oncosurgery at Tata Memorial Hospital. He is Special interest in thoracic cancers, gastrointestinal hepatobiliarypancreatic, breast and head neck cancers surgery and reconstructions.

8) Dr. Ketan Sirsath

Dr. Ketan Shirsath, MBBS, MD Medicine, DNB Medical Oncology, Consultant Medical Oncologist and Hemato Oncologist working as a Cancer Specialist Cunsultant at Krupamayi Hospital, Aurangabad. I will provide the best cancer treatment and care to the patient. My Speciality – Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy Palliative and supportive care Procedures like bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, lumbar puncture and intrathecal chemotherapy, “Picc” line insertion, ascitic tapping, pleural effusion drainage Administration work and setting up of an oncology facility Working as a team member with good interpersonal relationship

9) Dr. Chandrakant Tamane

Dr. Chandrashekhar Jagannath Tamane is an experienced oncologist who obtained his MBBS from Government Medical College, Aurangabad Maharashtra in 1993. He did his MD in Radiotherapy at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai in 1997. Dr. Chandrashekhar is a member of the Indian Society Of Oncology. He aims to keep up-to-date with the new research and current protocols in Oncology used by ASCO. He is currently working at Getwel Cancer Clinic, which aims at offering unbiased and scientific advice in the field of oncology. Moreover, he is flexible with appointment times.

10) Dr. Prakash Devade

Dr Prakash Devde is the head of Mumbai Oncocare Centre Aurangabad. He completed his MBBS from Government Medical College Aurangabad. MD in medicine from BJ medical college Ahmedabad and DM in medical oncology from Gujarat cancer research institute. He is the first DM medical oncologist in the Marathwada region who started his practice in Aurangabad in 2013. He initially worked with MGM hospital Aurangabad and then he is associated with Seth Nandlal Dhoot Hospital Dhoot Hospital since 2015 till date. He has a special interest in the management of cancers of the lung, head neck, breast and ovary. 

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www.childcancer.org.in

1} Child Cancer Trust

Child Cancer Trust is a public charitable trust to support children suffering from deadly cancer. The trust provides free blood, medicine, food, accommodation & education to children suffering from cancer. The trust is registered in the year 2020 under the Bombay Public Trust Act 1950 with Reg. No. E-1438. The trust is also registered with section 80G (for tax benefits), 12A, & C.S.R. Child Cancer Trust is also certified with ISO 9001:2015 for the services of free food, blood & medicine to children with cancer. The judication of Child Cancer Trust is all over India for all kind of support/services to child cancer patients whereas Its worldwide for awareness of cancer as per trust deed rules & regulations. Child Cancer Trust supports child patients suffering from cancer in these ways;The organization provides financial assistance to impoverished child cancer patients. Additionally, they offer free provisions of food, clothing, and accommodation to child cancer patients. Free transportation within the city is provided for medical purposes. In case of need, free legal assistance is also available. The organization supports access to various government and private treatment schemes. Furthermore, they offer free ambulances for child cancer patients. Their efforts also encompass raising awareness about child cancer. Moreover, they extend support to families after the passing of a child cancer patient, assisting with funeral processes.

2) Cudless Foundation

This NGO, dedicated to supporting children with cancer, emphasizes the importance of nourishment in combating the disease. In India, nearly 40% of children diagnosed with cancer suffer from malnutrition. Cuddles Foundation is committed to delivering comprehensive nutritional support to underprivileged pediatric cancer patients. At the core of their efforts is the Food Heals Programme, which focuses on tailoring nutrition to the unique medical requirements of each child. Cuddles Foundation’s skilled nutritionists collaborate with government and charitable cancer hospitals to provide food and supplements to both patients and their families. With a presence in over 20 cities, the Foundation currently supplies nutritious meals to children in 30+ such hospitals across the country.

3) St. Jude India Childcare Centres

The organisation’s centres are a home away from home for underprivileged families during their child’s treatment for cancer. St. Jude’s mission is to provide a clean, safe and cost-free environment and holistic care to children with cancer. It also supports the parents of such children.This cancer care NGO provides every child suffering from the illness, irrespective of economic status, a chance of surviving the disease. In its 33 centres across India, St. Jude provides families in need with free housing, nutrition and free transportation. It also offers art-based therapy, music therapy and yoga for the patients. These, along with skills training for income generation.

4) Indian Cancer Society

Established in 1951, the Indian Cancer Society holds the distinction of being the pioneering cancer care NGO that initiated patient assistance in India. Since its inception, it has been actively involved in early cancer detection through its centers and mobile camps spread across the nation. Notably, its emphasis lies on catering to the underprivileged segments of society.

5) The Charutar Arogya Mandal

The Charutar Arogya Mandal oversees numerous medical and paramedical establishments throughout Gujarat. Presently, it has emerged as a prominent non-governmental organization dedicated to supporting cancer patients in India. The inception of this organization can be attributed to the visionary efforts of the late Dr. HM Patel, who served as the former Finance and Home Affairs Minister.

6) Udhavum Ullangal Charitable Trust

The name “Udhavum Ullangal” translates to “helping hearts.” While the primary focus of the Charitable Trust is on education, its significant contributions extend to healthcare as well, particularly in the realms of cancer prevention and the recovery of cancer patients. These efforts have undeniably brought about positive transformations in the lives of numerous individuals.

7) CanKids

True to its name, CanKids KidsCan collaborates with children battling cancer through its distinctive program called YANA – “You are Not Alone.” This initiative offers comprehensive assistance to both the young cancer patients and their families. Starting from detection and spanning through diagnosis, treatment, and beyond, the organization aims to enhance the chances of survival by providing holistic support throughout the journey.

8) Yuvraj Singh Foundation

Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh, a cancer survivor himself, founded this organization Yuvraj Singh Foundation . The Foundation operates extensively within the healthcare realm, with a specific focus on cancer-related matters. Its efforts encompass educating the public about preventive measures against cancer, stressing the significance of regular screenings, and raising awareness about cancer’s signs and symptoms. This outreach is achieved through a variety of channels, including online campaigns, medical camps, corporate workshops, street plays, music festivals, media initiatives, and awareness events.

9) Sanjeevini Life Beyond Cancer

Sanjeevani Life Beyond Cancer is dedicated to serving patients belonging to less privileged sections of society, extending them complimentary treatment. Additionally, the organization plays a pivotal role in inspiring patients to maintain a positive perspective towards both their treatment and life. Established in 2012, Sanjeevani’s impact is evident, having positively impacted the lives of over 180,000 patients thus far.

10) Cancer Patient Aid Association

Founded more than half a century ago, the Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA) embarked on a mission to establish itself as a comprehensive cancer support organization. Its multifaceted approach includes patient care, aid, and assistance, spreading awareness, early detection, rehabilitation, and advocacy.

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Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. While it’s an effective treatment, it can also affect nearby healthy cells, leading to various side effects. These effects can vary based on the type and location of cancer, as well as the dosage and duration of treatment. Common side effects include:

1. Skin Changes: Skin in the treated area may become red, irritated, and sensitive. It might also peel, become dry, or develop blisters, similar to a sunburn.

2. Fatigue: Many patients experience fatigue due to the energy expended by the body to repair radiation-damaged cells.

3. Nausea and Vomiting: If the radiation is aimed at the abdomen, nausea and vomiting can occur. These side effects are more common in certain types of radiation therapy.

4. Hair Loss: Hair loss can occur in the area that receives radiation, but it’s often localized and temporary.

5. Difficulty Swallowing: Radiation to the head and neck can lead to difficulty in swallowing, called dysphagia.

6. Changes in Taste and Smell: Radiation to the head and neck area can alter taste and smell perceptions, making food taste differently or less appealing.

7. Breathing Problems: Radiation to the chest area can cause inflammation of the lungs, leading to shortness of breath and coughing.

8. Gastrointestinal Issues: Radiation to the abdominal area can cause diarrhea, cramping, and other gastrointestinal problems.

9. Bone Marrow Suppression: Radiation can affect bone marrow function, leading to decreased production of blood cells and an increased risk of infection, anemia, and bleeding.

10. Long-Term Effects: Some side effects may develop months or years after treatment, such as fibrosis (scarring) in the treated area, which can lead to stiffness and discomfort.

Chemotherapy:

Chemotherapy involves using drugs to target and kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. However, it can also affect normal cells that divide rapidly, leading to a range of side effects. The type of chemotherapy, dose, and individual factors contribute to the severity of these effects. Common side effects include:

1. Nausea and Vomiting: Chemotherapy drugs can irritate the stomach lining and trigger nausea and vomiting.

2. Hair Loss: Many chemotherapy drugs can lead to partial or complete hair loss, including hair on the scalp, eyebrows, and body.

3. Fatigue: Chemotherapy can cause extreme tiredness due to its impact on healthy cells, particularly those in bone marrow.

4. Increased Infection Risk: Chemotherapy can lower white blood cell counts, weakening the immune system and making patients more susceptible to infections.

5. Anemia: Chemotherapy can decrease red blood cell counts, leading to fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

6. Mouth and Throat Sores: Chemotherapy can cause mucositis, resulting in painful sores in the mouth and throat.

7. Loss of Appetite: Changes in taste, nausea, and other factors can lead to a decreased appetite and subsequent weight loss.

8. Neuropathy: Some chemotherapy drugs can cause nerve damage, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain, often in the hands and feet.

9. Skin and Nail Changes: Chemotherapy can lead to skin dryness, rash, and changes in the appearance of nails.

10. Cognitive Changes: Some patients experience “chemo brain,” which involves difficulties with memory, concentration, and cognitive function.

11. Fertility Issues: Chemotherapy can affect fertility in both men and women, sometimes leading to temporary or permanent infertility.

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2. Tobacco and Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains numerous carcinogens that can damage DNA and lead to mutations. Smoking is strongly linked to several types of cancer, including lung, throat, and mouth cancers.

3. UV Radiation: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds can damage DNA in skin cells and increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.

4. Unhealthy Diet: A diet high in processed foods, red and processed meats, sugary beverages, and low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can contribute to obesity and inflammation, increasing the risk of certain cancers.

5. Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles are associated with an increased risk of various cancers. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces inflammation, which can lower cancer risk.

6. Alcohol Consumption: Heavy and regular alcohol consumption can damage cells and increase the risk of several types of cancer, including liver, breast, and esophageal cancer.

7. Exposure to Carcinogens: Carcinogens are substances that can cause cancer. Occupational exposure to chemicals like asbestos, benzene, and formaldehyde, as well as environmental exposure to pollutants, can increase cancer risk.

8. Infections: Some infections are linked to an increased risk of cancer. For example, certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) are associated with cervical and other cancers. Hepatitis B and C infections can increase the risk of liver cancer.

9. Hormones: Hormones play a role in the development of certain cancers. Hormone replacement therapy, for example, has been associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

10. Age and Genetics: As people age, the risk of developing cancer increases. Additionally, some genetic mutations inherited from parents can predispose individuals to specific types of cancer.

11. Chronic Inflammation: Conditions that cause chronic inflammation, such as inflammatory bowel disease, can increase the risk of developing cancer in affected tissues.

12. Radiation Exposure: Exposure to ionizing radiation from sources like medical imaging or nuclear accidents can damage DNA and increase the risk of cancer.

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carcinoma –

Carcinoma cancer usually occurs in epithelial tissues. Epithelial tissues form the surface of organs inside and outside the body, such as the skin, the lining of the intestine, the inside of the mouth, and the inside of the nose. Carcinoma is considered to be the most common type of cancer. Some examples of carcinoma usually include prostate cancer, breast cancer, and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin.

sarcoma –

It is a malignant cancer occurring in connective tissues. Connective tissue is also called connective tissue, which serves to connect different parts of the body with each other. For example, cancer in adipose tissue, areolar tissue, tendons, ligaments and bones.

leukemia –

It is a cancer of the blood, which occurs when white blood cells start forming uncontrollably in the blood. The main types of leukemia include lymphocytic (acute and chronic) and myeloid (acute and chronic). The terms lymphocytic and myeloid leukemia refer to cancers of the cells that make up the white blood cells in the bone marrow and are at different stages.

lymphoma –

It is a cancer of the lymphatic system and its related organs. Lymph is a specialized fluid that builds up in the microscopic spaces between tissues. It is spread in the form of lymph vessels and glands in different parts of the body. Lymphatic fluid contains lymphocytes, which help the body fight infection. Cancer (lymphoma) that occurs in these parts is usually of two types, which are known as Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Apart from this, according to the part of the body in which cancer has occurred, cancer can also be divided by the following names –

breast cancer

cervical cancer

oral cancer

prostate cancer

uterine cancer

ovarian cancer

blood cancer

lung cancer

colon cancer

colon cancer

throat cancer

liver cancer

skin cancer

bladder cancer

brain cancer

kidney cancer

testicular cancer

pancreatic cancer

endometrial cancer

cancer of the vagina

heart cancer

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cancer grading

In this the tissue is first examined under a microscope and then the cancer is classified according to grade. Microscopic images of cancerous tissue usually reveal two things: how fast the cancer is growing and how the cancerous cells compare to healthy cells. When a large number of cancer cells have grown in a part of the body, the cancer is called “benign”. When cancer cells have spread not only in one part but also in other places, then this condition is called metastatic.

Brodar’s grading system depends on the extent of change in the cancer cells, with cancer cells having more changes. This refers to cells that appear normal and gradually proliferate to cells with minimal changes. These cells look very similar to their normal appearance. These grades are as follows –

grade 1 – completely transformed cells

grade 2 – cells with about half the change

grade 3 – cells with approximately half the change

Grade 4 – cells with low change

Diagnosis is also done with the help of pathological tests, lab tests as well as clinical examination. With the help of these tests, it is determined how far the tumor or cancer has spread.

TNM staging and the American Joint Committee (AJC) are the two main methods used to determine the stage and grade of cancer and have been used until recently.

cancer staging

tnm staging

TNM staging has three parts, in which “T” refers to the primary tumor, “N” refers to the lymph node and “M” refers to metastasis. These three components are represented by numbers, which show how much the cancer has grown or spread. The numbers of these components are as follows –

T0 – which means no tumor is found

T1-3 – Numbers 1 through 3 indicate that the tumor is growing in size. Which means, the higher the number, the bigger the tumor.

N0 – This means there is no cancer in the lymph node.

N1 to N3 – This refers to the number and size of cancer in the lymph node. Along with this, it is also known that how many lymph nodes are affected. The higher the number, the more lymph nodes are affected.

M0 – indicates that metastasis has not spread to other sites.

M1 – indicates that the tumor has spread from one site to other areas.

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surgical treatment

In this treatment process, the abnormally growing part of the cells is removed. This process is also done by biopsy technique only. This procedure is usually done only if the tumor is in an area that is easily accessible.

non-surgical treatment

Chemotherapy procedure is used in this. In chemotherapy, abnormally growing cells are destroyed with the help of special types of drugs. Apart from this, radiotherapy is also included in non-surgical treatment, because with the help of gamma radiation, tumors or abnormally growing fat are destroyed.

Sometimes both surgical and non-surgical treatment procedures are used. First chemotherapy or radio therapy is done with the help of which the size of the tumor is reduced and then it is removed with the help of surgery. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are done again after surgery, so that the cancer does not spread to any nearby part.

There are also some other treatment procedures to cure cancer, such as hormone therapy, immunological treatment, bisphosphonates, etc. These treatment procedures are used only in special cases. For example, hormone therapy can be a good treatment option for prostate cancer.

Apart from this, some other medicines can also be given according to the symptoms caused by cancer. These drugs mainly contain pain relievers, antacids and antipyretic drugs. Sometimes, in severe cases, persistent pain can be reduced by just applying a patch of morphine or other painkillers. However, reducing the pain cannot stop the cancer from growing.

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Physical examination

With the help of which the health related abnormalities of the person are detected.

Lab test –

Some tests are done by taking a sample of the person’s blood, which include CBC, ESR, C-reactive protein, liver function test, and kidney function test.

Imaging Tests –

These include X Ray, CT Scan, MRI, Barium Meal Study, Bone Density Scan, PET Scan, SPECT Scan and USG Scan.

Biopsy –

In this, a small sample of tissue is taken from the tumor or affected part of the skin, which is examined with the help of a microscope. With the help of a microscope, it is known that if there is cancer then in which stage it is.

Apart from this, some other tests can also be done, from which some information related to the origin, type and structure of the affected part of cancer can be obtained. These tests include the following –

Cancer Antigen 19.9 (CA 19.9)

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)

Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)

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