Prevention of Brain Cancer in Children

A reported increase in the level of brain cancer in children from 2.3 to 3.2 average cases per 100,000 youngsters from 1975 through 2004 has led to an increased concern about risk factors for the illness. Cancer rates have risen in the overall population in the past 30 years, and cancer is now the most common disease cause of death in children under the age of 10. Although brain cancer itself is relatively uncommon, brain cancer and leukemia are the most prevalent forms of cancer in children under 10.

Risk Factors

• The only proven risk factors for brain cancer in children is exposure to ionizing radiation and some rare chromosomal genetic abnormalities.There are studies linking environmental toxins such as chemicals, pesticides and cleaners to recent increases in the prevalence of childhood brain cancer. A 1993 study showed that pesticide use in the yard increased rates of brain cancer in children. Other studies have pointed to a possible link between childhood brain cancer and chemical solvents, flea and tick products and head lice shampoo. Although cell phone use has not definitively been linked to brain cancer, there have been no long term studies of its effects and children have thinner skulls that could be expected to absorb more radiation in this way.

Prevention

• According to pediatrician Dr. Philip Landrigan the rise in childhood cancer rates is not just due to better diagnostic equipment and is also related to environmental factors. In the absence of a specific cause of childhood brain cancer the best way to prevent it is to limit your child's cumulative exposure to all toxic chemicals, pesticides and cleaners. Buy organic or local produce and non toxic cleaning products for your home, and limit children's exposure to head radiation, such as dental X-rays. Try to find natural ways to rid your pets, home and yard from insects. You should also keep young children away from cell phones until there is more research on the potential long term effects of their use.

  You should also be aware of behavioral changes in your child. According to the Children's Hospital Boston symptoms of a brain tumor include irritability, headaches, sleepiness and nausea. Approximately half of all brain tumors in children will be cured, so early detection also plays a role in survival.