Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Month

How is childhood cancer different to adult cancer?

Childhood cancer is different from adult cancer in many ways. It is much less common, and the types of cancer children develop often affect the blood, brain, spinal cord, or lymphatic system.  Cancer goes on to impact their mental health, relationships, body image, fertility, and education and work, so treatment options need to consider a child’s growth, development, and long-term health. Childhood cancer symptoms can often look like common childhood illnesses; it’s important to get them checked if they are persistent, progressive, or occur in clusters. 

What support services are available for teenage and young person cancer patients in the UK?

In the UK, teenagers and young adults with cancer can access support through their NHS cancer team, including Clinical Nurse Specialists, psychologists, social workers and other professionals. We, CCLG: The Children & Young People’s Cancer Association, support children, teenagers and young adults with cancer by providing trusted information, factsheets and digital downloads to help patients and families understand and manage the challenges of diagnosis and treatment.

 We also fund research into better treatments and care, work with healthcare professionals, and push for improvements in childhood cancer diagnosis through our Child Cancer Smart campaign as well as other services. Our Engage platform is a national platform to support parents, carers, patients, survivors and family members to get involved in advocacy. Through education, connection and mentorship, it aims to help people build knowledge, confidence, and recognise the value of their lived experience. 

Other charities provide specialist hospital units, expert nurses, youth support coordinators, information and opportunities to connect with other young people aged 13–24, as well as practical, emotional and financial support.