Strength in Motion: Physical Therapy’s Role in Battling Paediatric Cancer

 

Childhood cancer refers to a range of malignancies affecting children under the age of 15. These cancers are biologically distinct from adult cancers, often arising from rapidly dividing cells in the blood, brain, bones, or lymphatic system. The most common types of paediatric cancers include leukemia, brain and spinal cord tumors, neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, and lymphomas. While survival rates have improved globally, cancer remains a leading cause of death among children, with many challenges in diagnosis and treatment, especially in low-resource settings.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 400,000 children are diagnosed with cancer annually worldwide, with leukemia being the most common type. In Pakistan, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reports that 5% of all cancers diagnosed are childhood cancers, highlighting the need for improved access to timely and effective treatment.

Impact of Cancer on the Paediatric Population

Children diagnosed with cancer face various physical, emotional, and developmental challenges. Aggressive treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, often cause side effects like muscle weakness, pain, fatigue, and reduced mobility. Given that children are in crucial developmental stages, addressing these effects through rehabilitation is essential to improving their quality of life.

 

How Physical Therapy Helps in Paediatric Cancer Care

Physical therapy is an essential component of paediatric oncology care, helping children manage the side effects of cancer and its treatment. It supports recovery by:

• Maintaining Strength and Mobility

Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can result in muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and reduced mobility. Physical therapists develop individualized exercise programs that focus on strengthening muscles and improving flexibility, helping children regain their independence in daily activities.

• Improving Balance and Coordination

Children with brain tumors or nervous system involvement often experience balance and coordination issues. Physical therapy involves exercises that enhance balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and helping children regain stability.

• Managing Pain and Fatigue

Chronic pain and fatigue are common side effects of cancer treatment. Physical therapists use manual therapy, massage, and guided exercises to manage pain and improve endurance, making children feel more energetic and less tired.

• Enhancing Cardiopulmonary Function

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can negatively affect heart and lung function, limiting a child's ability to participate in physical activities. Physical therapists focus on improving cardiovascular and respiratory fitness through structured exercise programs, enabling children to build stamina.

• Psychosocial Support

    Engaging in physical activities under a therapist's guidance can give children a sense of normalcy and control over their bodies. This support can significantly reduce anxiety, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being, allowing them to cope better with the emotional toll of cancer treatment.

 

Recent Statistics and Organizations Working in Pakistan

Globally, the survival rate for childhood cancer has improved significantly in high-income countries, with an average of 80% of children surviving for at least 5 years post-diagnosis. However, in low- and middle-income countries, survival rates remain much lower, at 20-30%, primarily due to delayed diagnoses and limited access to quality care. This disparity highlights the urgent need for comprehensive cancer care programs.

 

In Pakistan, organizations are working diligently to improve childhood cancer care:

• Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital & Research Centre (SKMCH): As Pakistan's largest comprehensive cancer center, SKMCH provides free cancer treatment to children nationwide, helping them access modern treatment modalities.
•  Indus Hospital & Health Network: The Indus Hospital's Paediatric Oncology Unit offers state-of-the-art cancer care, including chemotherapy and surgical interventions, free of charge for underprivileged children.
•  Children’s Cancer Hospital Karachi: A dedicated facility offering specialized treatment for paediatric cancer patients, focusing on early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment strategies.
•  The Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH): With its internationally accredited healthcare services, AKUH is a leader in paediatric oncology care, offering advanced cancer treatments and working on research initiatives to improve outcomes.
•  Pakistan Society of Pediatric Oncology (PSPO): The PSPO is actively raising awareness, promoting research, and improving pediatric cancer care throughout Pakistan by collaborating with national and international health bodies.

Globally, initiatives such as the Global Childhood Cancer Program, launched by the WHO and supported by organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, aim to increase survival rates to 60% by 2030 in low-resource settings, including Pakistan. These efforts emphasize the importance of comprehensive treatment, including rehabilitation services like physical therapy, to improve the quality of life for children with cancer.

 

Conclusion: The Integral Role of Physical Therapy

Paediatric cancer affects not only the physical health of children but also their overall development and emotional well-being. Physical therapy provides crucial support throughout their cancer journey, helping them regain strength, mobility, and confidence. By integrating physical therapy into paediatric cancer care, we can significantly enhance the quality of life and functional independence of these young patients.

As we observe Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, it is essential to recognize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy, in addressing the holistic needs of children with cancer. These rehabilitation efforts, combined with the ongoing work of local and global organizations, offer hope for better outcomes and a brighter future for children facing cancer.

 

References:

1. World Health Organization (WHO)
2.  International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
3.  Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital & Research Centre (SKMCH)
4.  Indus Hospital & Health Network
5.  Children’s Cancer Hospital Karachi
6.  Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH)
7.  Pakistan Society of Pediatric Oncology (PSPO)