 |
| | Introduction to Childhood Cancer |
Although childhood cancer is rare, approximately 9,000 children under the age of 15 will be diagnosed with cancer this year, according to the American Cancer Society.
Oncology, the study of cancer and  tumors, has made significant progress in the prevention, treatment, and prognosis of many pediatric cancers. Despite this progress, cancer is the chief cause of death by disease in children under age 15, and the fourth leading cause of death in children ages one to 19.
Pediatric cancer varies from adult cancers in development, treatment, response to therapy, tolerance of therapy, and prognosis. In most cases, childhood cancer is more responsive to therapy, the child can tolerate more aggressive therapy, and the prognosis is better.
The future direction of oncology involves genetic research and improved treatment options. Discovery of certain "cancer genes" has made significant breakthroughs in the study of cancer. Much more investigation into human genes and development are still needed to understand cancer.
No two patients or families are alike. It is impossible to address every issue or situation that will arise. The purpose of this module is to provide an overview of childhood cancer, how it happens, how it is diagnosed and treated, as well as what to expect, and how to deal with it.
Topic Index
About Cancer
Chemotherapy
Pediatric Bone Marrow Transplant
Pediatric Leukemia
Wilms Tumor
Hodgkin's Disease
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Osteogenic Sarcoma
Ewing Sarcoma
Neuroblastoma
Rhabdomyosarcoma
Retinoblastoma
Brain Tumors
Hepatoblastoma
Germ Cell Tumors
Glossary
Online Resources
|
|
The information on this Web page is provided for educational purposes. You understand and agree that this information is not intended to be, and should not be used as, a substitute for medical treatment by a health care professional. You agree that Lucile Salter Packard Children’s Hospital is not making a diagnosis of your condition or a recommendation about the course of treatment for your particular circumstances through the use of this Web page. You agree to be solely responsible for your use of this Web page and the information contained on this page. Lucile Salter Packard Children’s Hospital, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and information providers shall not be liable for any damages you may suffer or cause through your use of this page even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
|
Lucile Packard Children's Hospital is located in Palo Alto, adjacent to Stanford University Hospital, approximately 20 miles north of San Jose, CA and 40 miles south of San Francisco.
Lucile Packard Children's Hospital
725 Welch Road
Palo Alto, California 94304
(650) 497-8000
|
