7. Tumors of the Brain and Spinal Cord
Brain and spinal cord tumors are some of the most common cancers in children. There are a variety of different forms of these cancer types. Glioma is one kind of this type of cancer and is a group of small tumors in the glial cells (those cells that support the neurons). These cells are essential when it comes to a properly functioning nervous system. Ependymomas is another kind of this type of cancer. It is responsible for about five percent of the brain tumors in children. This cancer initially develops in the spinal cord in cells called the ependymal cells. This cancer is fortunately not always aggressive (which means a greater likelihood of being caught early on) and stays contained within the brain and spine and does not spread.
In the end, any type of cancer diagnosis in a child can cause you to feel as though your whole world has been turned upside down. However, the worst thing that you could do for your child, or a child you love with cancer, is to make this diagnosis the focus of every decision you make. Of course, seek medical attention right away if a child you know exhibits any of the above symptoms. However, also make sure to do your best to ensure that this child has an otherwise “normal” childhood.