Cancer & children

A diagnosis of cancer for a child, adolescent or young adult causes huge shockwaves through a family. Parents, grandparents, siblings and others will respond in different ways. It's common for different family members to experience a range of emotions, including anxiety, disbelief, anger, guilt and sadness.

Children diagnosed with cancer have many concerns and reactions that are different from those of an adult diagnosed with cancer. Many children-specific services are available in Australia - see our links below.

Telling your child you have cancer

Children can quickly sense something's wrong, even if they're not told.

Parents Cancer Connect

Talk to someone else who knows what it's like to be affected by cancer.

If your child has a brain tumour

Brain tumours are the second most common cancer in children.

Nutrition & kids with cancer

It's important to eat a balanced diet and keep active during treatment.

For schools

Information for students and teachers about cancer.

Links to useful sites

A comprehensive list of websites that deal with children and cancer.

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Updated: 11 Feb, 2010