Although most cases of cancer are diagnosed in older adults, children can and do develop various kinds of cancers, some of which can be readily treated. However, as the number of childhood cancer survivors has increased over time, it has become apparent that a grim consequence of the treatments applied is to increase the survivor's risk of developing additional cancers…
Cancer is something even adults sometimes have a hard time fully comprehending, so it's totally understandable for kids to have difficulty dealing with this disease. One way to clear up confusion and help your child with cancer cope is with books designed with this purpose in mind. Here are four worth considering. 1. 'My Cancer Days' This book by Courtney…
Children with cancer often have concerns about either starting a new school year or returning to school after missing several days or weeks because of hospitalization or doctors' appointments. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help your child enjoy a good school year as they undergo treatment for cancer. Plan an Appropriate Back to School Welcome If…
There's research suggesting childhood cancer survivors are more likely to experience sleep problems. This makes sense since sleep disorders in the general population are often linked to emotional and physical health. One study that involved nearly 2,000 childhood cancer survivors showed that some sleep problems continued later into life as young survivors grew older. Daytime Sleepiness A lack of sufficient…
Anybody with cancer can have a difficult time trying to stay positive. This task can be even more challenging for a child living with cancer. If the past year included the unexpected news that your son or daughter or a special child in your life has cancer, you may be apprehensive about the coming year. But negative thoughts can also…
Many common summer veggies have known or suspected cancer-fighting or prevention properties. Here are five of them to feed to your family: 1. Cabbage Cabbage is loaded with cancer-fighting compounds such as sulforaphane. A compound called diindolylmethane (DIM) may protect children from radiation therapy by protecting healthy tissues in the area being treated. There are many types of cabbage that…
Art therapy allows for a freedom of expression that can be just what the doctor ordered for children living with cancer and undergoing treatment. In one study involving children with leukemia, parents said art therapy made it easier for them to manage bone marrow aspiration and other painful procedures. Now, here's a closer look at how kids with cancer may…
Children with cancer often have difficulty sticking to normal sleep patterns. This sometimes happens because of increased daytime fatigue caused by either the disease itself or their treatments. Medication side effects and schedules sometimes contribute to sleep disturbances as well. Every child with cancer has unique circumstances involved with their care and treatment. Still, there are some ways you may…
The physical and emotional effects of cancer can make take a toll on any child of any age living with some form of this disease. With pet therapy, however, kids can be kids as they interact with friendly, cuddly pets. Even if parents aren't in a position to welcome a pet into the family home, there are still many ways…
