Cancer in children is rare, but when it strikes, it shakes families and communities. In the UAE, childhood cancers make up 2.7% to 3.3% of all cancer cases, yet the impact is immeasurable. Awareness about childhood cancers, their symptoms, and supportive care options is still growing. Early detection and comprehensive treatment can save lives
Types & Prevalence of Cancer in the UAE
Unlike adult cancers, which are often linked to lifestyle factors such as smoking or diet, childhood cancers usually result from changes in the way cells grow and develop. In the UAE, childhood cancer is a growing health concern. According to regional health authorities and reports from pediatric oncology centers:
- Leukemia leads the way, accounting for roughly 30–35% of cases.
- Brain and central nervous system (CNS) tumors follow next, around 11–13%.
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma comes in at about 11%, while bone, cartilage, and kidney cancers each account for 6–7%.
In 2021, there were 154 new pediatric cancer cases among children aged 0–14. The 2023 registry shows 237 cases, with boys (60%) slightly surpassing girls (40%). Age-wise, children under age 5 had the highest rate—36%, with ages 10–14 next at 33%, and ages 5–9 trailing at 31%
Why Early Awareness Matters in Cancer
One of the biggest challenges with childhood cancers is that symptoms often mimic those of common illnesses. Red flags include:
- Persistent fever, fatigue, or frequent infections
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Morning headaches or vomiting
- Sudden vision or balance issues
- Swollen lumps or unexplained belly changes
- Limping, bone pain, or weight loss
Parents should trust their instincts. If something feels wrong or symptoms do not improve with normal care, it is vital to seek medical evaluation promptly. Early detection improves treatment success.
Cancer Treatments Available in the UAE
Treating cancer in children requires specialised approaches because their bodies are still developing. Pediatric oncologists use a combination of therapies tailored to each child’s condition:
- Chemotherapy remains the backbone of treatment, particularly for leukemia.
- Surgery and radiation help remove or control tumors, with care taken due to children’s ongoing growth.
- Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT) services have rapidly expanded:
- Introduced in the UAE in 2019, with more centers offering it by 2021–22, including allogeneic transplants for children.
- Targeted therapy and immunotherapy are emerging, but patients still have to go outside if they want to receive CAR-T Cell therapy.
Facing cancer treatment can be tough on a child’s body and spirit.
Cancer Support That Goes Beyond Medicine
While medical treatment remains the foundation of childhood cancer care, supportive approaches play an important role in helping young patients cope. Strong chemotherapy and radiation can leave children weak, nauseated, and vulnerable to infections. This is where supportive care, including herbal formulations like Body Revival, may help
What is Body Revival?
Body Revival is a herbal formulation that has been clinically tested for cancer care. The clinical test was conducted in accordance with the Government of India’s rules. It is officially registered on the ICMR-CTRI website.
How Body Revival helps cancer patients:
- Strengthening immunity, especially during chemo-induced weakness
- Boosting energy and fighting fatigue
- Aiding blood health and recovery
- Helping detoxify from strong medications
- Supporting appetite and nutrition
We strongly recommend that Body Revival should only be used with a doctor’s approval. It needs to be part of the child’s treatment plan and should not interfere with medical treatments.
Beyond supplements, FOCP provides emotional and financial support. They’ve conducted 52 hospital visits, supported 1,817 children, and consistently reduced isolation through surprise visits and parent support.
A Brighter Future for Young Fighters
In the UAE, survival rates are improving due to increased awareness, improved infrastructure, and expanded access to treatment. Yet, the focus should never solely be on beating cancer; it’s about nurturing the child through the journey. Childhood cancer is a frightening diagnosis for any family, but advances in medicine and supportive care mean that survival and recovery are more achievable than ever.
Combining modern treatments with supportive care, empowering parents with knowledge is key to beating cancer. When science, compassion, and early action come together, childhood cancer becomes not just survivable – but beatable.