Children, teens and young adults

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.

Types of childhood cancer

Common cancer types in children are different to those in adults.

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Signs of cancer in children and diagnosis

Information about diagnosing and testing.

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Treating childhood cancers

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.  

Talking to kids about cancer

Understand more about how you can talk to children about cancer.

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Cancer in the school community

Information for staff members about cancer in the school community.

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Day-to-day life during and after childhood cancer

Learn what to expect and who to get support from for childhood cancer.

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Reactions and emotions to childhood cancer

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.

Childhood cancer facts and figures

Key facts and figures about childhood cancer.

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Questions about cancer?

Call or email our experienced cancer nurses for information and support.

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