September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, offer support, and emphasize the importance of prevention and early detection. At IM&PC, we are committed to helping families in Saltillo, New Albany, and nearby communities protect their children’s health through consistent wellness visits, screenings, and education.
While childhood cancer remains rare, its impact is life-changing. Awareness and proactive care can make a real difference in detecting early signs, reducing risks, and promoting lifelong health. During this important month, we encourage families to schedule wellness visits and learn about ways to lower potential cancer risks.
Why Early Detection Matters During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Many cancers in children are not caused by lifestyle factors, but early detection remains essential. Wellness visits at IM&PC offer a reliable way to monitor a child’s growth, development, and any unusual symptoms that may appear. Our providers are trained to recognize warning signs and recommend diagnostic testing when needed.
Parents are often the first to notice changes in their child’s health. Common signs that may require medical attention include:
- Unexplained fevers
- Persistent fatigue
- Unusual lumps or swelling
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Weight loss without reason
- Ongoing pain in one area of the body
Wellness exams help track any concerns over time. When something feels off, our providers can take action early. Regular visits also allow parents to ask questions and get peace of mind about their child’s health.
Preventive Care for Children in Saltillo and New Albany
At IM&PC, we believe prevention plays an important role in keeping children healthy. While many cancers cannot be prevented, reducing exposure to known risk factors can help support overall wellness and may lower risk in the long term.
Sun Protection
Excess sun exposure during childhood can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. Children should wear sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing during outdoor activities. IM&PC providers offer guidance on sun safety, especially during peak UV hours in Mississippi.
Vaccinations
Some cancers are linked to viruses. The HPV vaccine, recommended for preteens, helps prevent several types of cancer later in life. Hepatitis B vaccination also helps reduce the risk of liver cancer. Staying up to date on immunizations is a powerful step toward protection.
Avoiding Carcinogens
Limiting exposure to known carcinogens, including secondhand smoke, can improve long-term outcomes. Children should grow up in environments that support clean air, safe drinking water, and minimal chemical exposure. Our clinics help families understand environmental risks and how to reduce them at home.
Nutrition and Exercise
Healthy habits early in life support a strong immune system. A balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help lower inflammation and promote cellular health. Physical activity also keeps the body strong and improves energy and mood. IM&PC supports families in building healthy routines that stick.
The Role of Wellness Visits in Childhood Health Monitoring
Wellness visits are not only about vaccines and physical growth. These regular checkups provide opportunities for providers to screen for potential problems, answer health concerns, and monitor development over time. During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, we highlight the value of these appointments in helping detect early signs of cancer.
Each visit includes:
- Head-to-toe physical exam
- Growth and development tracking
- Discussion of family health history
- Vision and hearing checks
- Lab work or diagnostic testing when needed
- Immunization updates
When caught early, many health concerns can be addressed more effectively. IM&PC’s family-focused approach means our providers build long-term relationships with patients, making it easier to spot changes and provide individualized care.
We also understand that some children are more at risk due to genetics or other health conditions. That’s why we work closely with families to review medical history and make informed decisions about screenings and follow-up care.
Supporting Families Throughout the Journey
No one expects cancer to affect their child. But when it does, early support, compassionate care, and trusted guidance are essential. IM&PC serves as a partner in every stage of care, whether helping with early detection, guiding referrals, or supporting post-treatment wellness.
We are here for families navigating:
- Diagnostic testing
- Specialist coordination
- Emotional support and counseling
- Follow-up visits for long-term care
Our team is committed to providing care that’s accessible, respectful, and rooted in evidence-based practices. We understand how important it is for families to have providers they trust, especially during difficult times.
Even when cancer isn’t part of a child’s story, prevention and awareness are still powerful tools. When families know what to look for and where to turn, they can take charge of their children’s health with confidence.
Spreading Awareness in Saltillo and New Albany
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is also a time to support local families, share resources, and honor children who are fighting or have fought cancer. IM&PC is proud to serve the Saltillo and New Albany communities as a trusted partner in pediatric care.
By raising awareness in our region, we hope to:
- Encourage regular wellness visits
- Highlight early warning signs
- Educate families on prevention strategies
- Promote support for affected children and their families
We invite parents to schedule a checkup this month, not just in response to symptoms but as a preventive measure. Pediatric care should be proactive, not reactive. The sooner we address a concern, the better the chances for recovery and continued growth.
Make Wellness Visits a Priority This September
As we recognize Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September, we encourage all families to take one simple but powerful step: schedule a wellness visit. It’s a chance to check in, ask questions, and ensure children are growing strong and staying healthy.
IM&PC offers pediatric services at both our Saltillo and New Albany locations. Our providers are here to help children thrive through every age and stage. From preventive care to diagnostic testing, we support families with knowledge, compassion, and continuity of care.
This month is a reminder of the strength and courage of children affected by cancer. But it’s also a call to action. By choosing prevention, early detection, and wellness, we can help protect more children and support brighter futures.