Most people would say “Its’s only leukaemia that’s curable”. Did you know that it is the second biggest killer of children and teenagers, and the incidence of it is increasing.

So…what should I be looking out for?

• Unexplained weight loss
• Headaches
• Vomiting, at night or early morning
• Increased swelling in the abdomen
• Pain in bones, joints, back, or legs
• Lumps in abdomen, neck, chest, pelvis or armpits
• Excessive, unexplained bruising
• Bleeding of nose or gums, or heavy periods
• Rash
• Constant infections
• Nausea which persists or vomiting without nausea
• Constant tiredness
• Noticeable pale complexion
• Eye or vision changes which occur suddenly and persist
• Fevers that come and go without explanation
• General feeling of being unwell

It is highly unlikely that, as a teenager, you will develop leukaemia or another form of cancer. However, if you are aware of what to look out for, if you do these symptoms, they can be checked out very quickly.

Although it is unlikely that your child will develop cancer, as a parent, you need to be aware of the symptoms of childhood and teenage cancer. As parents, we know our children best. If you notice any sudden changes in health or behaviour, get it checked out.

Most of the symptoms of cancer can also be attributed to other illnesses, so please do not worry if you or your child displays any of the signs above. In all likelihood, you or your child will not develop leukaemia or another cancer – however, you must trust your own instinct.