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 because they are growing rapidly. Most forms of chemotherapy specifically affect cells that are dividing rapidly.

Children and adolescents with cancer and their families have special needs that can be best met by cancer centers for children and adolescents working 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, as well as the unique needs of children and adolescents with cancers. 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. About 94% of children with cancer in the United States are treated at a children's cancer center that is a member of the Children's Oncology Group (COG). All of these centers are associated with a university and most with a children's hospital. (See the Additional Resources section for more information.)

Revised 10-28-03

Revised: 10/12/2004