Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

For children aged 5-9, which cause of death ranks second after accidental injuries?

1. Birth Defects

2. Cancer

3. Homicide

4. Heart Disease

The correct answer is: Cancer

For children aged 5 to 9, the second leading cause of death after accidental injuries is cancer. This age group experiences a higher prevalence of certain types of cancer, such as leukemia and brain tumors, compared to other causes of death. While birth defects, homicide, and heart disease are significant concerns in pediatric health, they do not surpass cancer as a cause of mortality in this particular age range. Accidental injuries often top the list due to the various risks associated with childhood activities and exploration. However, once those accidents are accounted for, diseases like cancer emerge as critical health issues for children, showcasing the importance of ongoing research and advancements in pediatric oncology to combat these conditions.