Top 5 Childhood Cancers (years 2001-2005)
These cancers occur most commonly among 0-19 year olds.
Males
| Females
|
Screening Recommendations
| Age and Sex | Screening Recommendations | Screening Locations and Other Information |
|---|---|---|
| Girls: about 3 years after beginning vaginal intercourse | For cervical cancer: Pelvic exam and pap test every 1-3 years depending on your level of risk (every 3 years only after you have had 3 consecutive negative results). | Sites for low income, uninsured women: |
| Boys age 15 and older | For testicular cancer: Monthly testicular self-exam and a clinical exam every 1 to 3 years. |
Prevention Strategies
Healthy habits in childhood and adolescence can reduce risk of cancer in adulthood.
- Don't smoke. If you do smoke, quit.
- Keep infants and young children out of the sun as much as possible during the first year of life.
- Use sun protection methods, such as protective clothing and sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater) and limit sun exposure during the hours of 10 am and 4 pm.
- Eat a healthy diet. Choose 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Limit high fat foods, including red meat.
- Get 30 minutes of physical activity on 5 or more days of the week.
Related Links
- Massachusetts Tobacco Control Program
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry: Cancer Fact Sheet
- American Cancer Society: Cancer Prevention
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: CDC Activities to Promote Skin Cancer Prevention and Education
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: TIPS (Tobacco Information and Prevention Source)
- Massachusetts Commission on End of Life Care
- National Cancer Institute: Childhood cancers
- Produce for Better Health Foundation
This information is provided by the Department of Public Health.