Early warning is of utmost importance and in part 1 of our conversation, Dr Jan du Plessis explains what you need to look out for in your child and why you need to seek professional help even with the slightest change in your child.

St Siluan’s Warning Signs of Childhood Cancer:

S – Seek medical help early for ongoing symptoms

I – White spot in the eye, new squint, sudden blindness or bulging eyeball

L – Lump on the stomach, pelvis, head, arms, legs, testicle or glands

U – Unexplained fever present for over two weeks, weight loss, fatigue, pale appearance, easy bruising & bleeding

A – Aching bones, joints, back and easy fractures

N – Neurological signs, a change in walk, balance or speech, regression, continuous headaches with / without vomiting & enlarged head

Teenagers, busy with sports and activities, often do not notice the first symptoms of their cancer, or attribute them to other parts of their lifestyle. These are the most common signs to watch out for. If the following symptoms are consistent and unexplained, always see your doctor:

Aching bones, joints, back and easy fracture

Lump, bump and swelling

Significant weight loss

Extreme tiredness

Headaches

Prolonged fever

White spot in the eye, new squint, new blindness or bulging eye ball

Change in walk, balance, speech and enlarging head

These signs and symptoms can be difficult to spot amidst the normal bumps, bruises, growth spurts and mood swings. However, early detection is key; by knowing the common signs of cancer in young people, you could help save a life.

Should you pick up any of these signs please contact the CHOC help line on 0800 333 555 immediately.

You can also visit https://choc.org.za/ to help children faced with cancer.

Paediatric oncologist Dr Jan du Plessis can be contacted on 051 405 3181.

In deel 2 gesels Dr Jan du Plessis oor wat dit vat om met kinders met kanker te werk en hoekom dit vir hom so 'n voorreg is om hierdie pad saam met die gesinne te stap.

In deel 3 vra ek vir Dr Jan du Plessis of daar meer kinders in SA met kanker gediagnoseer word as in die verlede? Hy vertel ook hoe die behandeling werk vir meeste van die kinders.

DISCLAIMER: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.