Primary Care Pediatricians: Early Detection of Childhood Cancer

MADRID 12 Feb. (EUROPA PRESS) –

The Spanish Association of Primary Care Pediatrics (AEPap) has highlighted the “key” role of this medical specialty and its professionals in the early detection of childhood cancer, an early diagnosis that “saves lives.”

“The Primary Care pediatrician, who knows the child and his family from the first years of life, is in a privileged position to detect subtle, persistent or unusual changes that can warn of a serious pathology,” indicated Dr. Marta Barrios, who is a member of this scientific society, which has joined the celebration, this Sunday, February 15, of International Childhood Cancer Day.

In this context, the AEPap has reported that the most common types of childhood cancer are leukemias, brain tumors, lymphomas and solid tumors such as neuroblastoma and Wilms tumors (kidney), according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Every year around 1,500 cases of childhood cancer are diagnosed in Spain, of which approximately 1,100 affect children under 14 years of age.

This organization has pointed out that, despite being a rare pathology, it continues to be one of the main causes of infant mortality due to disease. Currently, overall survival in Spain exceeds 80 percent, a figure that can continue to improve with early diagnosis.

INITIAL NON-SPECIFIC SYMPTOMS

“Childhood cancer usually manifests initially with non-specific symptoms, similar to those of frequent processes in childhood,” explained Barrios, which is why specific training in oncological skills is advocated within Primary Care Pediatrics. “Knowing when to refer preferentially or urgently, recognizing warning signs and maintaining active listening to family concerns are fundamental elements to shorten diagnostic times,” he assured.

In addition, the AEPap, which has also highlighted the role of parents when observing symptoms, has recalled that Primary Care paediatricians collaborate with Children’s Oncology Units, offering continued support to families and participating in the long-term follow-up of childhood cancer survivors.

“When we suspect a possible childhood cancer, it is generally necessary to perform imaging tests and blood and/or urine tests,” said Barrios, who added that these are normally performed by this specialty or by the pediatric oncologist, “depending on the urgency of referral of the patient and their clinical status.” “Rapid access to Children’s Oncology Units is crucial,” he concluded.