Cancers in children and adolescents account for only 1% of all cancers that are diagnosed in the United States. Every year, about 12,500 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer and about 2,300 die of cancer. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in children younger than 14 years of age. The types of cancers that develop in children are different from the types that develop in adults. Although there are exceptions, childhood cancers tend to respond better to chemotherapy. Children also tolerate chemotherapy better than adults. But because chemotherapy can have some long-term side effects, children who survive their cancer need careful attention for the rest of their lives.

Children and adolescents with cancer and their families have special needs that can be best met by cancer centers for children and adolescents that work closely with the child's primary care physician. Treatment in specialized centers takes advantage of a team of specialists who know the differences between cancers that occur in adults and those that occur in children and adolescents, and are aware of the unique needs of children and adolescents with cancer. This team usually includes pediatric oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pediatric pathologists, pediatric oncology nurses, and nurse practitioners.

The treatment of cancer in children and adolescents also involves many professionals other than nurses and doctors. Children's cancer centers have psychologists, social workers, child life specialists, nutritionists, rehabilitation and physical therapists, and educators who can support and educate the entire family.

Since the 1960s most children with cancer have been treated at specialized centers designed for children. Nearly 90% of children with cancer in the United States are treated at a center that is a member of the Children's Oncology Group (COG). All of these centers are associated with a university or children's hospital. Right now, about 40,000 children are being treated according to COG protocols. These protocols are a standard way to treat certain kinds of cancer to promote consistent quality of care and to help doctors learn about which treatments work best.

Revised: 08/04/2006