International Childhood Cancer Day, celebrated around the world on February 15, leaves a warning about the signs and symptoms of the disease. Created in 2002 by Childhood Cancer International, the date symbolizes a global campaign to raise awareness and support for childhood cancer for children, adolescents and their families.

According to the National Cancer Institute (Inca), this disease is the leading cause of death in children and adolescents aged 1 to 19 in Brazil.

The most common tumors in childhood and adolescence are leukemias (affecting white blood cells), affecting the central nervous system, and lymphomas (lymphatic system).

Joinville Children’s Hospital Pediatric Oncologist, Dr. Gilberto Pasqualotto, confirmed on Wednesday morning (15) in an interview with the GIRO ND program the need to pay attention to symptoms.

The symptoms of cancer in children are often similar to those of common childhood illnesses. Therefore, frequent consultations with a pediatrician are necessary.

It is these specialists who can identify the first signs of cancer and refer the child for diagnostic examination and specialized treatment.