Signs and symptoms of childhood cancer
What to look out for
Cancer is diagnosed in children more often than we may think.
Current statistics show that 1 child in every 450 will be diagnosed with cancer before their 15th birthday. This is why is it so important to know the signs to look for. The likelihood is that you will not need to know these signs, but it is much better to know just in case.
The Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust has produced awareness cards to identify the signs and symptoms to look for and indicate the need to have your child reviewed.
What are the signs & symptoms?
The signs and symptoms of childhood cancer are varied and can often be similar to other common childhood illnesses. This can sometimes make cancer initially difficult to identify. Unlike standard childhood ailments, however, cancer symptoms do not improve and usually worsen. This sets it aside from other diagnoses.
Please remember, if your child has some symptoms from this list, it does not mean that they have cancer. The likelihood is that they have a normal childhood illness, but they should be seen by a doctor to rule out something more serious.
Please seek medical advice immediately (straight away) if your child:
- Is in severe pain
- Has blood in their urine or widespread bruising with unknown cause
- Has a non-blanching rash – a rash that does not go away when pressed (think of the glass test)
- Is having double vision, a new squint, visual disturbances, a loss of balance or has become confused
- Has had a first seizure
- You are extremely worried
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Please remember that
Most of the time these symptoms are not due to cancer, but it is important to get your child checked if you are concerned.
For the few children that do have cancer, early diagnosis makes it more treatable.
Spotting the signs and symptoms of childhood cancer with the Institute of Health Visiting
The Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust has teamed up with the Institute of Health Visiting to help parents be aware of the signs of childhood cancer.
Written by the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust and peer reviewed by experts, this information sheet tells you the signs and symptoms to look for in more detail.
Page last reviewed April 2024
