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About cancer

Children’s cancers

Children's cancers are much less common than adult cancers. Children develop different types of cancer than adults but they often have the same types of treatments.

The photo above is of Jasper. Jasper was diagnosed with a brain tumour aged 5.

This section includes general information about children’s cancers, and details on several specific types. If you can’t find the type you’re looking for here, there is also information about some children’s cancers in the adult cancer sections.

Go to our list of cancer types

You might be interested in

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Signs and symptoms of cancer in children

They can be very similar to those of other childhood illnesses. It is important to go to your child's GP if you're worried.

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What is children's cancer?

The most common types of children's cancers are acute leukaemias (a type of blood cancer) and cancers of the brain and spinal cord. Get information on cancers affecting children aged 0-14 years old.

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Risks and causes of children's cancers

We don't know what causes or how to prevent most children's cancers. There are some factors that can increase the risk of cancer in children.

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My child has just been diagnosed with cancer

Get information and support to help you cope when your child has just been diagnosed with cancer.

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Children's cancer types

We have more detailed information on some types of children's cancer.

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Children's cancer support and organisations

There is lots of help and support available for children, their parents, siblings and other family members.

Teenage and young adult (TYA) cancers

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Around 2,300 young people aged 15-24 are diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK.

Adam was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma aged 14. Find out more about different cancer types, coping and who can help.

Learn more about our work in children's cancers

Last reviewed: 19 Aug 2024

Next review due: 19 Aug 2027

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Dangoor Education

About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education

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Help and Support

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Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.