According to the National Cancer Institute, pediatric cancer continues to rise with roughly 5,090 adolescents between the ages of 15 to 19 years developing cancer annually, and with many children undergoing Pediatric Oncology Clinical Trials.

The good news is that research organizations are tirelessly working to understand these links better and find ways to prevent and treat cancer. Institutions like National Cancer Institute (NCI), American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), American Cancer Society (ACS), MD Anderson Cancer Center, Cancer Research Institute (CRI), Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR), National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR), Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center.
Donating for cancer research at these cancer research organizations can provide support for groundbreaking studies and provide hope for countless families.

While environmental factors, such as radiation and second hand smoke exposure, have been linked with some types of childhood cancers, the foods children consume can also play a role. These statistics are deeply concerning, and to safeguard children, parents must be hyper-aware of environmental pollution kids are exposed to as well as moderate any carcinogenic foods. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital recommends that parents avoid giving children any of the following foods:

1. Sugary juice boxes

These sugary drinks are the worst offender when it comes to cancer-causing sugar. They contain high amounts of fructose, which can cause a rapid and excessive spike in blood sugar levels, leading to insulin resistance and many other health issues. St. Jude’s donations also help educate the public on cancer risks, including healthy food options for kids.

2. Processed or cured meats

The World Health Organization considers processed meats—including ham, bacon, salami and hotdogs as carcinogenic foods, and research shows that processed meats are linked to cancer. Eating processed meat increases the risk of bowel and stomach cancer. It’s important to note that these foods are not just unhealthy for kids. According to St. Jude’s Cancer hospital Research, eating red meat increases the risk of colorectal cancer by 30 percent and pancreatic cancer by up to 53 percent.

3. Diet soda

Soda is a major cause of childhood obesity and has been linked to cancer. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, sodas are linked to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and possibly cancer. In addition, soda is also high in calories and sugar, which can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It is also important to note that diet soda also contains harmful sweeteners such as aspartame, which can contribute to brain tumors, heart and kidney damage, and other health issues.

4. French fries

French fries are a common American food that kids love to eat. But eating fries too often can harm health, especially their hearts and lungs. French fries are deep-fried in trans fatty oil and contain high acrylamide levels. A chemical compound formed when fast-acting carbohydrate foods are cooked at high temperatures. This chemical causes cancer when consumed in high amounts over a long period.

5. Milk and cheese

As much as kids love cheese strings and ice cream, it’s important to moderate their intake of milk and cheese. Many studies have shown the dangers of high fat dairy consumption to children, especially those under 2-years old. It has been shown that dairy products may increase the risk of obesity and childhood leukemia, and it’s believed that dairy products may also increase the risk of other pediatric cancers.

Children’s foods linked to cancer contain a high amount of sugar, carcinogens, salt, and trans fat. Focus a child’s diet around healthy food options like fresh fruit, vegetables, healthy fats, and lean proteins. Cancer donation for kids can help patients detect cancer sooner and get the treatments they need faster.