No parent ever wants to suspect – let alone confront the reality – that their child has cancer. But here’s the stark reality: cancer in children is rare, but early diagnosis is key to recovery. The sooner a physician can catch it, the better your child’s chances.

But that’s easier said than done, isn’t it? Many symptoms of pediatric cancer resemble other innocuous childhood illnesses. It's important to remember that these symptoms are common and not always indicative of cancer. That’s why the parents’ mantra should be “better safe than sorry.”

We’re not outlining these symptoms to make you paranoid. But parents must be vigilant in detecting and investigating these kinds of changes. After all, you know your child best! 

Recognizing these early warning signs means timely diagnosis and swift treatment: giving your child their best chance for kicking cancer to the curb!

12 Common Early Symptoms of Pediatric Cancers

Sign #1 – Unexplained Weight Loss

Sudden, significant weight loss without a clear cause, such as changes in diet or physical activity, is a major red flag. While some fluctuations are totally normal, an unexplainable trend of weight loss could indicate an underlying health issue, including cancer. (Unexplained weight gain should also be taken seriously, though it is not typically linked to cancer.)

Sign #2 – Persistent Fever

Fevers are very common in children. They’re the body’s natural way of fighting off infection. Children often encounter “bugs” that challenge their immune systems, so a low-grade fever from time to time is usually nothing to worry about. However, suppose a fever lasts for weeks without a clear cause (such as an infection) or continuously returns. In that case, it may indicate leukemia or another type of cancer affecting the immune system.

Sign #3 – Unusual Lumps or Swelling

A doctor should check any unexplained lump, swelling, or mass. Some pediatric cancers, such as lymphoma or neuroblastoma, can cause swollen lymph nodes or tumors. While these lumps may very well be benign, it’s always a good idea to get checked out.

Sign #4 – Frequent Infections

Children with leukemia often experience recurring infections. This occurs because cancer affects the production of white blood cells. That, in turn, weakens the immune system. Because of this, back-to-back illnesses with longer-than-usual recovery times are worth discussing with your child’s doctor.

Sign #5 – Unexplained Bruising or Bleeding

Easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, or lingering bleeding from minor cuts can indicate issues with blood clotting. These symptoms can point to leukemia, a cancer that impacts blood cell production in the bone marrow.

Sign #6 – Persistent Bone or Joint Pain

Growing pains are common in children, but persistent or severe bone pain, especially at night or without an apparent injury, is cause for concern. 

Sign #7 – Changes in Vision

Sudden changes in vision, such as blurry vision, double vision, or seeing floating spots, may be caused by tumors pressing on nerves or structures in the brain. Kids don’t always know how to communicate changes in this area (remember how long it can take for them to realize they might need glasses!), so ask questions regularly.

Sign #8 – Chronic Fatigue or Weakness

Kids are active, so they get tired. Growth spurts can also increase fatigue in small bursts. However, persistent fatigue, weakness, or a noticeable decline in energy could be pointing to a larger medical issue!

Sign #9 – Persistent Headaches

Occasional headaches are normal. But some headaches are decidedly more severe. If your child experiences migraines (especially combined with vomiting), get them checked out. If headaches do not respond to usual treatments, seek help. Even if it isn’t a cancer issue, no child should have to live with that kind of pain! 

Sign #10 – Abdominal Swelling or Pain

A swollen belly, constant pain, or a feeling of fullness despite not eating much can be symptoms of tumors somewhere in the abdomen. For example, Wilms tumor, a kidney cancer in children, often presents this way.

Sign #11 – Unexplained Night Sweats

Excessive night sweats, particularly when accompanied by weight loss, fever, or fatigue, may be associated with certain types of cancer. If the issue isn’t resolved by adjusting the pajamas, room temperature, or other environmental factors, consult a pediatrician. 

Sign #12 – Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing

Wheezing, persistent coughing, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath that doesn’t improve with standard treatments is always a cause for concern, cancer or no cancer.

When Should We See a Doctor?

If your child experiences any of these symptoms, don’t panic. They don’t necessarily mean cancer. That said, they should not be ignored if they persist, worsen, or appear in combination! Remember, you're not alone in this. Pediatricians can conduct initial evaluations and refer families to specialists for additional testing if necessary.

And that, dear friends, is the best first step you can take in getting an early diagnosis and medically advocating for your child!