In the state of Chiapas, the most common types of cancer in girls and boys are leukemia, tumors of the central nervous system, and lymphomas. It has been found that the highest incidence of childhood cancer occurs in children under five years of age, who are mostly treated at the Specialty Hospital of Tuxtla Gutiérrez. The Chiapas Health Secretariat recognizes that childhood cancer is a public health problem at the national level, being the main cause of death in children between five and 14 years of age. For this reason, it has urged the population to perform tests for early detection in order to offer timely treatment and contribute to the reduction of mortality.
Humberto Gutiérrez Niño, Coordinator of Outreach for the Mexican Association for Aid to Children with Cancer (AMANC) in Chiapas, in an interview during his visit to San Cristóbal de las Casas, reported that there is currently a record of approximately 400 children diagnosed with cancer in the state, who are being treated at the Specialty Hospital in Tuxtla Gutiérrez.
“In Chiapas, childhood cancer is a public health problem that must be addressed urgently. We recognize that not all children have access to public health services, but there are currently 400 families undergoing oncological treatment, concentrated in the Pediatric Specialty Hospital in Tuxtla Gutiérrez. This is the only third-level hospital in the state that treats childhood cancer. In Tapachula, cases of leukemia are also treated. However, many families choose to take their children outside the state, mainly to Mexico City, to receive treatment,” said Gutiérrez Niño.
He added that childhood cancer can be detected early if certain signs and symptoms are recognized. The main ones are three: unusual fatigue or tiredness, weight loss in a short period of two to three months, and pale skin. If these symptoms are present, it is crucial to go to the doctor immediately.
“They should also be alert to the appearance of bruises on the body, which is a warning sign. Childhood cancer is a disease that progresses rapidly due to the phase of accelerated cell growth in children, which increases its severity. The invitation is to go to the doctor as soon as possible to detect the disease in time. Currently, there are 400 cases of boys and girls with cancer in active treatment at the Hospital de Especialidades de Tuxtla Gutiérrez. If any symptoms appear, it is vital to seek urgent medical attention,” he concluded.
Source: elheraldodechiapas
