Title: Study Shows Majority of Adults Lack Confidence in Spotting Early Signs of Cancer in Children
Subtitle: Research highlights the need for an education campaign to raise awareness about childhood cancer symptoms
By John Ely, Senior Health Reporter For MailOnline
Published: 11:25 17 Oct 2023, updated: 11:46 17 Oct 2023
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Nottingham and childhood cancer charities has revealed that two-thirds of adults lack confidence in their ability to recognize early signs of cancer in children. The study, which involved 1,000 participants including parents, found that only one in 10 adults could identify some of the most subtle symptoms of childhood cancer.
Out of the 42 classic signs of cancer in children that were tested, the participants on average only recognized 11. Furthermore, less than half of the adults surveyed were aware that lumps or swelling in the pelvis, breast, or testicle could be potential cancer symptoms. Other recognized signs included blood in urine or stool, changes to moles, and weight loss, all of which are also markers of the disease in adults.
However, the study revealed that more subtle signs specific to childhood cancers were not well-known among adults. Only 10% of adults recognized early or late puberty as a potential sign of cancer, despite the fact that tumors can disrupt the normal process of puberty. Similarly, developmental delays, slow recovery from bone injuries, limited or abnormal facial movement, and hearing problems were also lesser-known indications of the disease.
The authors of the report, published in the journal Archives of Disease in Childhood, emphasized the need for an education campaign to raise awareness about the signs of childhood cancers. They highlighted the misconception that childhood cancer is rare, stating that while the number of cases may be small compared to adult cancers, the overall risk from birth to early adulthood is comparable to that of other childhood illnesses.
According to the researchers, increasing public awareness about the signs of childhood cancer is vital in order to spot cases early when they are most treatable. Childhood cancer is currently the leading cause of death in children over the age of 12 months in the UK and a major cause of acquired disability for young people. Every year, an estimated 1,800 new cases of cancer are diagnosed in children in the UK, resulting in 250 deaths.
The study also highlighted the GP appointment crisis in England, stating that one in eight people in the country have ignored potentially cancerous lumps or moles due to delays in accessing medical care. The authors urged for better access to healthcare services to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment of childhood cancer cases.
It is crucial to note that many of the potential cancer symptoms identified in the study could also be caused by less serious conditions or diseases. The researchers acknowledged that their study had some limitations, including a sample that primarily consisted of older adults and potential bias in respondents’ answers.
In conclusion, the study underscores the urgency of raising public awareness about the signs of childhood cancer. Early detection can significantly improve outcomes for children, making it imperative for adults to be knowledgeable about the various symptoms associated with the disease.