Every year, Argentina sees between 1300 and 1400 new cases of childhood cancer diagnosed in children under 15 years old. The unique biological characteristics and rapid development of these tumors highlight the urgent need for optimized early detection methods. Unlike adult cancers—which often arise from known risk factors like smoking or poor diet—childhood tumors are typically linked to inherent biological alterations in development, making traditional preventative measures largely ineffective.

February 15 marks the International Childhood Cancer Day, providing a platform to raise awareness about the specific challenges associated with pediatric oncology. This day emphasizes the importance of understanding that while primary prevention plays a critical role in adult cancers, early detection and targeted therapies are paramount in treating pediatric cases, where most tumors are the result of biological changes that are not influenced by lifestyle choices.

The statistics underscore a significant public health issue that requires attention from both the medical community and society. As awareness grows about the nature of childhood cancers, efforts to enhance early diagnosis and improve treatment protocols need to be prioritized, ensuring better outcomes for young patients and their families facing these challenging circumstances.