About childhood cancer
It’s a very challenging and difficult time when a child is diagnosed with cancer. The child with cancer and everyone close to them may go through many different feelings and emotions, including disbelief, anger, shock, sadness and fear.
Cancer Council is committed to improving the lives of children with cancer, and their families, through practical support and research.
This information was produced in collaboration with The Paediatric Integrated Cancer Service (PICS), parents and staff from the Oncology units at both The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne & Monash Children's, Monash Health, Melbourne and ONTrac, Peter Mac Victorian Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Service.
Common cancer types in children are different to those in adults.
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Information about diagnosing and testing.
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Learn about treatment methods for childhood cancer.
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Childhood cancer support
Cancer Council 13 11 20 is equipped to provide specialist cancer information and support services related to childhood cancers. There are also various resources, services and organisations which can help you support a child affected by cancer.
Understand more about how you can talk to children about cancer.
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Learn what to expect and who to get support from for childhood cancer.
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Learn about reactions and emotions associated with childhood cancer.
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Childhood cancer statistics
Cancer is relatively uncommon in children and adolescents, and survival rates for many cancers in these groups are high. Data from the Victorian Cancer Registry can provide more information on cancer presentation, incidence, survival and mortality.
Key facts and figures about childhood cancer.
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