Boys vs girls: Who is more at risk of childhood cancer? Oncologist reveals prevention tips

Cancer is mostly associated with adults, but there is a type of cancer that can affect children as well. Childhood cancer, although rare, is on a steep rise all over the world. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Sudha Sinha, Clinical director and HOD, Medical Oncology, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad said, “While these illnesses are rare, they can be devastating for families. Boys are slightly more at risk than girls for developing certain types of childhood cancers.” Also read | Oncologist debunks 5 myths about childhood cancer: Is it always fatal?

Boys vs. girls: Who is more vulnerable?

“Cancers such as leukaemia, lymphoma, brain tumours, and neuroblastoma are diagnosed more frequently in boys. One exception is Wilms’ tumour (a type of kidney cancer), which is seen a little more often in girls,” the oncologist said.

Why this difference? The reasons are still being studied, but several factors may play a role:

• Biological: Variations in immune system function and hormone regulation between boys and girls.
• Environmental exposures: Boys may be more vulnerable to pollutants, toxins, or prenatal exposures.
• Genetic influences: Subtle genetic variants might predispose boys to certain cancers, though evidence remains incomplete.

Can childhood cancer be prevented?

The doctor said that unlike adults, children usually don’t have lifestyle-related risk factors such as smoking or alcohol use. “However, environmental exposures, maternal health during pregnancy, and certain infections or conditions can influence risk. While not every cancer is preventable, families can take meaningful steps to lower risks,” Dr. Sudha Sinha said. Also read | Oncologist lists 5 childhood cancer red flags: Fever, fatigue, lumps and more

Tips to prevent childhood cancer:

During pregnancy:

• Avoid more than two cups of coffee daily (linked to higher risk of childhood leukaemia).
• Eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables daily; at least two servings of fresh fruits a day provide antioxidant protection for the baby.
• Avoid frequent intake of grilled, barbecued, smoked, or deep-fried foods.
• Take prenatal vitamins with folic acid as they can reduce the risk of leukaemia and brain tumours in children.
• Avoid excess fatty meats and seafood, and refined vegetable oils (sunflower, soy).
• Maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle. Fitter mothers are more likely to have healthier babies.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking (including passive exposure from family members).
• Breastfeed if possible. Breastfeeding lowers the risk of childhood leukaemia by about 10%, and by nearly 20% when continued for six months or longer.
• Choose clean, balanced nutrition with whole grains, lentils, nuts, and fresh home-cooked meals are safer than highly processed or oily foods.

For young children:

• Encourage outdoor play and physical activity; limit screen time.
• Guard against pesticide and chemical exposure at home and workplace.
• Protect from air pollution (dense traffic zones linked with higher leukaemia risk).
• Avoid unnecessary X-rays and CT scans.
• Use sunscreen for outdoor activities.
• Ensure early screening for siblings of children with hereditary cancers like retinoblastoma.
• Monitor children with infections or genetic conditions (HIV, Down syndrome, Epstein-Barr virus) more closely.

For teenagers:

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.