Reducing the risk of childhood cancer

Painting a nursery before the arrival of a new baby is a natural nesting instinct but it could harm the baby, say experts.

Scientists are urging prospective parents to avoid using oil based paints and solvents like white spirit in the first few years of a child’s life because they are known carcinogens.

Making simple lifestyle changes could also have a protective effect against childhood cancer.

Sending a child to a day-care nursery boosts their immune system by allowing them to play with other children who will be carrying new bacteria.

In pregnancy, women should avoid processed meat and fried, grilled or well-roasted foods which contain the chemical acrylamide, a known carcinogen in animals.

If possible, pregnant women should also avoid nightshift and steer clear of white or blue lights in the evening to avoid disrupting natural rhythms. Likewise, nightlights in children’s bedrooms should also be deep orange or red, but never white and blue.

Scientists are also calling on the government to do more to cut pollution from vehicles and improve air quality in towns and cities.

Dr Denis Henshaw added: “Women should also avoid too much coffee during pregnancy as three to four cups has been shown to increase the risk of leukaemia in offspring by three to four fold.

“Working nightshift is also a class 2 carcinogen, which means that it is probably carcinogenic.”

The experts say doctors should also avoid giving children x-rays and CT scans where possible to avoid radiation.