Paediatric Cancer Care in Mohali: Child-Friendly Oncology Services & Support

Childhood cancer is a life-altering diagnosis for any family. In Mohali and the wider region of Punjab, parents seek not only the best medical treatment but compassionate, age-appropriate care that supports the whole family. This article explains what paediatric cancer care looks like in Mohali, how diagnoses are made, what treatment options are available, and how Livasa Mohali and its paediatric oncology team support children and families through the journey. For appointments call +91 80788 80788 or book online.

Introduction

Childhood cancers are biologically different from adult cancers. They often arise from developing tissues and have distinct patterns of response to therapy and long-term outcomes. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 400,000 children and adolescents (ages 0–19) are diagnosed with cancer globally each year. Survival rates vary widely around the world — exceeding 80% in high-income countries and remaining much lower in many low- and middle-income regions due to late diagnosis and limited access to specialised care.

In India, paediatric oncology services have expanded significantly in the last decade, with improved diagnostic facilities, more trained paediatric oncologists, and better supportive care. In Punjab and Mohali specifically, families now have access to dedicated paediatric oncology clinics and multidisciplinary teams that focus on child-friendly oncology services, including child-centred chemotherapy protocols, play therapy, nutritional rehabilitation, and psychosocial support. Livasa Mohali is one of the centres offering integrated paediatric cancer care in the region.

This article is designed for parents, caregivers, and local healthcare professionals looking for clear, practical information about childhood cancer symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options (including kids chemotherapy), support services, costs, and long-term follow-up in Mohali and Punjab. We emphasise evidence-based approaches while highlighting local resources to help families make informed decisions.

What causes cancer in children?

Understanding the causes of childhood cancer helps families appreciate why early diagnosis and tailored treatment plans are essential. Unlike many adult cancers where lifestyle and long-term environmental exposures play major roles, childhood cancers are usually related to genetic and developmental factors. However, the causes are not always clear-cut and are often multifactorial.

Major contributors include:

• Genetic predisposition: Certain inherited syndromes increase risk (e.g., Li-Fraumeni, Down syndrome, neurofibromatosis). Genetic mutations can predispose children to tumours of the blood, brain, and other organs.
• Spontaneous mutations: Many childhood cancers result from random genetic changes during growth and cell division — these are not inherited and are not the result of parental actions.
• In-utero exposures: Limited evidence links some exposures during pregnancy to rare childhood cancers, but definitive causes remain uncommon and difficult to prove.
• Infections: A small number of cancers (for example, some lymphomas) have been associated with viral infections, primarily in certain global regions.
• Environmental factors: Compared to adults, the role of environment is usually smaller in children, though prolonged high-level exposures (radiation, some chemicals) can be relevant in rare cases.

Importantly, most childhood cancers are not preventable through parental behaviour and are not caused by routine vaccinations, childhood illnesses, or routine diet. When a child is diagnosed, the focus is on accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment rather than assigning blame. In Mohali, paediatric oncologists and genetic counsellors at centres such as Livasa Mohali work together to evaluate possible genetic causes and advise families about inheritance risks, screening for siblings if indicated, and options such as genetic testing and counselling.

Recognizing symptoms and diagnosis in Mohali

Early recognition of child cancer symptoms can improve outcomes. Symptoms vary by type of cancer and age of the child, and many signs are non-specific — they can mimic common childhood illnesses. Families and local paediatricians in Mohali should be aware of red flag signs and act promptly when they persist or are unexplained.

Common symptoms to watch for include:

• Unexplained lumps or swelling (neck, abdomen, limbs)
• Persistent or unexplained fever (>2 weeks) not responding to treatment
• Unusual or persistent bone pain, limping, or swelling
• Easy bruising, bleeding, or persistent pallor (signs of blood cancers)
• Persistent headaches, vomiting, especially in the morning, or changes in balance/vision (possible brain tumours)
• Rapid unexplained weight loss or failure to thrive
• Changes in behaviour, unexplained fatigue, or recurrent infections

If parents or local physicians in Mohali suspect a serious problem, the typical diagnostic pathway includes:

1. Comprehensive clinical evaluation by a paediatrician and urgent referral to a paediatric oncologist Mohali when indicated.
2. Blood tests (complete blood count, peripheral smear, basic biochemistry) to detect blood cancers or organ dysfunction.
3. Imaging: ultrasound for abdominal lumps, X-rays, CT and MRI scans for organ or brain lesions.
4. Definitive tissue diagnosis via biopsy or bone marrow aspiration/biopsy for haematological malignancies.
5. Staging investigations to assess spread, including PET-CT in selected cases and bone scans when required.
6. Additional tests such as cytogenetics, immunophenotyping, and molecular assays to classify the tumour precisely and guide treatment.

In Mohali, prompt access to diagnostic imaging and laboratory services at institutions like Livasa Mohali allows for rapid confirmation of diagnosis and early initiation of treatment. Genetic counselling is offered when inherited conditions are suspected, and multidisciplinary tumour boards review complex cases to plan personalised care.

Treatment options: surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy

Treatment of childhood cancer almost always involves a combination of therapies tailored to the cancer type, stage, and the child’s overall health. The main modalities are surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy — plus newer targeted and immunotherapies for selected tumours. Paediatric oncologists in Mohali design regimens that balance cure rates with reducing long-term side effects.

Below is a high-level comparison of primary treatment modalities to help families understand benefits and trade-offs:

In Mohali, the paediatric oncology team evaluates each child in a multidisciplinary setting including paediatric surgeons, radiation oncologists, paediatric anaesthetists, pathologists, radiologists, and rehabilitation specialists. This collaborative approach ensures that treatment is evidence-based and that supportive care to manage side effects (anti-nausea medication, infection prevention, nutritional support) is built into the plan from day one.

Kids chemotherapy in Mohali: how it is adapted for children

Chemotherapy remains the cornerstone of treatment for many paediatric cancers — particularly leukaemias, lymphomas, certain brain tumours and sarcomas. "Kids chemotherapy" involves specific dosing strategies, supportive care protocols, and child-centred delivery methods designed to reduce distress and side effects. Paediatric chemotherapy teams in Mohali, including those at Livasa Mohali, prioritise safe administration and family education.

Key principles of paediatric chemotherapy:

• Weight/age-based dosing: Chemotherapy is calculated precisely for a child’s body surface area or weight to avoid under- or overdosing.
• Child-friendly administration: Use of implantable ports or central lines to reduce repeated needle sticks; play specialists prepare children for procedures to reduce anxiety.
• Cycle planning: Treatment is given in cycles with rest periods to allow marrow and organ recovery.
• Supportive care: Prophylactic antiemetics, growth factor support, antibiotics for febrile neutropenia, and nutritional supplements are standard.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests, cardiac and liver monitoring are performed to detect early toxicity and adjust treatment.

Different ways chemotherapy can be given are compared below to help families understand choices and logistics:

In Mohali, paediatric oncology units arrange flexible scheduling, day-care chemotherapy suites, and overnight admissions when intensive support is required. A hallmark of child-friendly chemotherapy is the presence of trained paediatric nurses, play therapists, and dedicated counselling to reduce procedure-related trauma and ensure the child's emotional needs are met while receiving life-saving treatment.

Advanced therapies: bone marrow transplant and targeted treatments

For certain paediatric cancers — such as high-risk leukaemias, some relapsed tumours, and specific genetic disorders — more advanced therapies may be recommended. Two important options are haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (commonly called bone marrow transplant or BMT) and targeted/immunotherapies. These require specialised centres, experienced teams, and close follow-up, all of which are increasingly available in Mohali and surrounding regions.

Bone marrow transplant involves replacing diseased or damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells from the patient (autologous) or a donor (allogeneic). It is a complex process requiring pre-transplant conditioning chemotherapy ± radiotherapy, careful donor matching, and intensive supportive care to manage complications such as infections and graft-vs-host disease (for allogeneic transplants).

Targeted therapies and immunotherapies are treatments that act on specific molecular pathways (e.g., tyrosine kinase inhibitors) or engage the immune system (e.g., CAR-T cell therapy). These are increasingly important in paediatric oncology for tumours with identifiable targets or for specific relapsed/leukaemia indications.

A comparison of bone marrow transplant versus conventional therapy clarifies indications and expectations:

In Mohali, families considering BMT or cutting-edge targeted therapies should seek centres with experienced paediatric transplant teams, robust intensive care support, and long-term survivorship services. Livasa Mohali coordinates with regional and national referral centres when specialised procedures like CAR-T need to be considered, and provides pre- and post-transplant counselling, donor search assistance, and rehabilitation planning.

Supportive care, rehabilitation and paediatric palliative services

Successful paediatric cancer care is not only about curing disease — it is about preserving quality of life, supporting families, and helping children recover physically, emotionally, and developmentally. Supportive care services available in Mohali often include nutritional rehabilitation, pain and symptom management, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, educational support, and structured psychosocial interventions for children and caregivers.

Components of a comprehensive support programme:

• Psychological support: Individual and family counselling, play therapy, and sibling support to address anxiety, behavioural change, and trauma.
• Pain and symptom management: Age-appropriate pain control, antiemetic regimens, and management of treatment-related side effects.
• Paediatric palliative care: Focused on relief from suffering, dignity, and support for complex needs; available even when curative treatment continues.
• Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy and occupational therapy to support recovery of motor skills, school reintegration, and functional independence.
• Educational liaison: School reintegration plans, home tutoring during prolonged admissions, and coordination with local schools in Mohali.
• Social and financial support: Assistance with hospital lodging, transport, charitable funds, and insurance navigation.

Local support networks and community organisations in Punjab may help families access financial aid, accommodation near the hospital, and peer-led support groups. At Livasa Mohali, the paediatric cancer support programme includes family counselling, social work services, nutrition clinics, and linkages to local NGO resources. Family-centred care is emphasised, ensuring caregivers are trained to manage care at home and provided with contact pathways for emergencies.

Emergency paediatric oncology and urgent care in Mohali

Children undergoing cancer treatment are at increased risk of emergencies such as febrile neutropenia, severe dehydration, bleeding, and complications related to central lines or transplants. Prompt recognition and rapid management of these complications significantly reduce morbidity and mortality. Families should have clear instructions and emergency contact details from their paediatric oncology team.

Typical emergency scenarios include:

• Fever in a neutropenic child: Fever ≥38°C in a child on chemotherapy is a medical emergency requiring immediate assessment and IV antibiotics.
• Severe bleeding or unexplained bruising: May indicate marrow suppression or bleeding diathesis and requires urgent evaluation and possible transfusion.
• Respiratory distress: Could indicate infection, fluid overload, or tumour-related airway compromise; needs rapid assessment and support.
• Severe pain or uncontrolled vomiting: Needs urgent symptom control and hydration.

In Mohali, a reliable paediatric oncology centre should provide 24/7 access to paediatricians and oncologists or have fast referral arrangements with tertiary hospitals. Livasa Mohali offers protocols for emergency paediatric oncology, clear instructions for caregivers, and direct phone support — call +91 80788 80788 for urgent guidance or to connect with the paediatric oncology on-call team.

How to choose a paediatric oncologist and centre in Mohali

Choosing the right paediatric oncology team is one of the most important decisions a family can make. Key factors to consider when selecting a paediatric oncology clinic in Mohali include the team’s experience, multidisciplinary support, availability of supportive services, access to advanced therapies, and a compassionate, child-friendly environment.

Checklist to help families evaluate centres:

• Qualifications and experience: Look for a board-certified paediatric oncologist Mohali with experience in childhood cancers.
• Multidisciplinary team: Paediatric surgeons, radiation oncologists, transplant specialists, pathologists, radiologists, nurses, physiotherapists, and psychologists.
• Child-friendly environment: Play areas, trained paediatric nursing staff, and protocols to reduce procedural pain and anxiety.
• Access to diagnostics and labs: On-site imaging, pathology, cytogenetics and molecular testing to ensure rapid, accurate diagnosis.
• Support services: Psychosocial support, palliative care, education liaison, and rehabilitation services.
• Emergency care: 24/7 access to paediatric emergency or the ability to escalate care quickly.
• Affordability and transparency: Clear cost estimates, insurance assistance, and information about charitable options.

Why consider Livasa Mohali:

• Integrated paediatric oncology team experienced in treating children with leukaemia, lymphomas, brain tumours, sarcomas and other solid tumours.
• Child-focused care pathways including child-friendly chemotherapy suites, play therapy, nutrition services and psychosocial support.
• Clear appointment process: Book a paediatric cancer consultation at Livasa Mohali via online booking or call +91 80788 80788.

Costs, insurance and financial support for child cancer treatment in Mohali

Cost is an understandable concern for families facing paediatric cancer. Treatment expenses vary widely depending on the type of cancer, intensity of therapy, need for surgery or transplant, duration of hospitalisation, and supportive care needs. Providing transparent cost guidance helps families plan and access financial assistance where necessary.

Approximate cost ranges (illustrative and subject to variation):

• Standard chemotherapy regimens: INR 1–5 lakh depending on cycles, investigations, and hospital stay.
• Complex multimodality treatment (surgery + chemo + radiotherapy): INR 3–10 lakh on average, varying with the procedure and length of care.
• Bone marrow transplant (BMT): INR 8–25 lakh depending on donor type (autologous vs allogeneic), conditioning regimen, and complications.
• Targeted/immunotherapies: Highly variable – some targeted agents can be expensive and may require special access programmes.

Many families in Mohali and Punjab use a combination of government schemes, private insurance, employer benefits, and NGO support to cover costs. Livasa Mohali’s social services team helps families navigate insurance claims, government aid, and charitable resources. Before starting treatment, confirm:

• What your insurance policy covers (in-patient care, medicines, investigations)
• Pre-authorisation processes and documentation
• Available government schemes in Punjab for paediatric cancer support
• Potential charitable trusts or hospital funds that assist families

Families should discuss cost estimates and phased budgets with their treating team to avoid unexpected financial strain and to identify the most cost-effective, evidence-based treatment plan for the child.

Long-term follow-up, survivorship and life after treatment

Survivorship care is a vital component of paediatric cancer programmes. As cure rates improve, attention shifts to long-term health: monitoring for late effects of therapy, supporting developmental and psychosocial needs, and enabling children to resume education and normal life activities. Long-term follow-up clinics coordinate this care across specialties.

Key elements of survivorship care include:

• Regular medical surveillance: Blood tests, imaging and organ-specific screening (cardiac, endocrine, hearing, fertility) as dictated by treatments received.
• Growth and developmental monitoring: Address learning difficulties, school support, and psychosocial counselling.
• Rehabilitation: Physical therapy for motor deficits, occupational therapy for daily living skills and vocational counselling for older survivors.
• Fertility and endocrine counseling: Pre-treatment counselling and post-treatment fertility preservation discussions where applicable.
• Lifestyle guidance: Healthy diet, exercise recommendations, and vaccination advice tailored to the survivor’s immune status.

In Mohali, long-term follow-up paediatric cancer clinics are increasingly being established to ensure survivors receive continuous care through adolescence and into adulthood. Livasa Mohali offers follow-up programmes that coordinate with local paediatricians to provide accessible ongoing care, including late-effect screening and mental health support.

Families should keep a detailed treatment summary and survivorship care plan provided by the treating centre. This document is invaluable when transitioning care to local doctors or when seen in emergency settings outside the treating hospital.

How Livasa Mohali supports children and families

Livasa Hospitals’ paediatric oncology services in Mohali are focused on delivering evidence-based treatment within a child-friendly environment. The paediatric oncology team at Livasa Mohali provides consultations, diagnostics, chemotherapy services for kids, access to surgery and radiotherapy planning, transplantation coordination, and integrated supportive care.

Services highlighted at Livasa Mohali:

• Paediatric oncology consultation: Timely appointments with specialists experienced in childhood cancers.
• Child-friendly chemotherapy suites: Trained paediatric nurses, play therapy and protocols to minimise distress during treatments.
• Integrated diagnostics: On-site imaging and laboratory support for rapid diagnosis and staging.
• Multidisciplinary care: Coordination among surgeons, radiotherapists, transplant specialists and supportive care teams.
• Family support services: Counselling, social work assistance, and guidance on insurance and financial aid.

To arrange a paediatric cancer consultation at Livasa Mohali, families can call +91 80788 80788 or book an appointment online. The team will guide you through initial evaluations, diagnostic planning, and timelines for starting treatment. For urgent concerns, the hospital provides direct contact options and emergency protocols to ensure rapid response.

Conclusion and practical next steps for families in Mohali

Facing childhood cancer is overwhelming, but the combination of early recognition, prompt specialist referral, modern therapies, and comprehensive supportive care significantly improves outcomes. In Mohali and Punjab, paediatric oncology services such as those at Livasa Mohali provide coordinated, child-centred care that addresses medical and emotional needs.

Practical next steps for parents:

• Trust your instincts: seek evaluation if your child has persistent, unexplained symptoms.
• Obtain timely referral: ask your paediatrician for urgent paediatric oncology consultation in Mohali when red flags appear.
• Prepare questions: bring a list of symptoms, prior tests, and a family history to your appointment.
• Request a written treatment plan and cost estimate, and discuss insurance and financial options early.
• Engage support: involve counsellors, social workers, and local support groups to help with emotional and practical needs.

For families seeking a trusted paediatric oncology centre near Mohali, Livasa Mohali offers experienced paediatric oncologists, child-friendly chemotherapy, multidisciplinary care and integrated support services. For appointment and queries call +91 80788 80788 or book online.