Receiving a cancer diagnosis is difficult at any age, but childhood cancer can feel especially overwhelming for both children and parents. If your child has been diagnosed with cancer, you are not alone.
At Banner Children’s, our pediatric cancer specialists bring hope, healing and compassionate care to children of all ages. We’re here to answer your questions, guide your family and treat your child - not just their illness. Our expert team has the specialized training and experience to provide exceptional care for the person who matters most: your child.
Pediatric cancer, also called childhood cancer, can affect children, adolescents and young adults. Unlike many adult cancers, which are often linked to lifestyle or environmental factors over time, childhood cancers usually have different causes.
The exact cause of childhood cancer is often unknown. It may be linked to changes in genes, certain environmental factors or exposure to radiation. Because there is usually no clear cause, pediatric cancer cannot be prevented.
The cancers most often found in children are different from those seen in adults. Common pediatric cancers include:
Learn more about common pediatric cancers.
If your pediatrician suspects cancer, they may refer your child to a pediatric oncologist - a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer in children.
Your pediatric oncologist will:
Learn more about detection and diagnosis.
Our family-centered care approach means we partner with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your child’s condition and needs. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
Our pediatric oncology team will explain every option, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
Learn more about treatment options.
A cancer diagnosis can bring new medical terms and complex information. Our team will walk with you through this journey - answering questions, providing resources and helping you understand your child’s care.
Explore pediatric cancer FAQs and glossary.
Most childhood cancers cannot be prevented. They are usually caused by changes in genes or other factors that occur naturally, not by lifestyle or environment. Early detection and prompt treatment are the best ways to improve outcomes.
Signs may vary by type of cancer, but common symptoms can include:
If you notice these symptoms, contact your child’s pediatrician right away.
Diagnosis may involve a physical exam, blood tests, imaging scans and sometimes a biopsy. A pediatric oncologist will coordinate these tests to confirm whether cancer is present.
Survival rates depend on the type and stage of cancer at diagnosis, as well as how a child responds to treatment. Advances in pediatric oncology have greatly improved outcomes, and many children go on to live healthy lives after treatment.
Banner Children’s offers counseling, social work services, child life specialists and support groups for patients and families. We are here to help with emotional, educational and practical needs throughout your child’s treatment.
Whether your child is diagnosed with a blood disorder or pediatric cancer, they receive respectful, compassionate care from the moment they enter our doors. When your child becomes our patient, they also become part of the Banner Children’s family.
Learn more about our approach to pediatric care.
We provide pediatric oncology services at:
We also offer support groups for patients, siblings and parents to help your family cope and connect with others.
Our goal is to help your child beat pediatric cancer - and to never forget that your child is more than a patient.
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