Pediatric Cancers

What Are Pediatric Cancers?

At the University of Colorado Cancer Center, we are committed to supporting comprehensive care and support for pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients and their families who are battling cancer. Pediatric cancer refers to cancers that occur in children and adolescents typically under the age of 18. It is essential to understand that pediatric cancers are different from adult cancers, both in terms of types of cancers and treatment approaches.

Pediatric Cancer Prognosis and Survival Rates

This year, according to the National Cancer Institute, it is estimated that 9,910 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed among children from birth to 14 years, with about 1,040 children expected to die from the disease in the United States. More than 16,000 people under the age of 21 will be diagnosed this year alone. Although cancer death rates for this age group have declined by 70% from 1970 through 2020, and most children survive, cancer remains the leading cause of death from disease among children.

Why Come to CU Cancer Center for Pediatric Cancer

The pediatric oncology program in the University of Colorado Cancer Center is based at Children’s Hospital Colorado for all pediatric cancer cases. The Children’s Colorado team is made up of dedicated multi-disciplinary experts who are Cancer Center members and specialize in treating pediatric cancer. This team is at the forefront in leading research and innovation to improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for our young patients.

The team of pediatric oncologists and bone marrow, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pharmacists, advanced practice providers, nurses, psychologists, child life and social workers, family navigators, and support staff work together to create personalized treatment plans for each child. We understand that every patient is unique, and we strive to provide the most effective and comprehensive care possible, while contributing actively to childhood cancer clinical, translational, and basic science research.

As an academic cancer center, research is at the core of what we do: Our commitment to advancing knowledge and improving treatment options for pediatric cancer is unwavering. We actively develop and participate in clinical trials and collaborate with leading institutions around the world to drive progress in pediatric oncology.

Cancer care at Children’s Colorado is consistently ranked among the top in the nation. The 2023–24 U.S. News & World Report Best Children's Hospitals ranking recognized Children's Colorado as the seventh best pediatric oncology care provider in the country. Newsweek magazine recognized our program as the fourth best in the nation in the same year.

Types of Pediatric Cancers

There are various types of pediatric cancers, each requiring a highly specialized approach to diagnosis and treatment. Some common types of pediatric cancer include:

• Leukemias: The most common type of childhood cancer overall, affecting the blood and bone marrow.
• Brain Tumors: Tumors that develop in the brain and central nervous system.
• Neuroblastoma: A cancer that forms in nerve tissue, often found in the adrenal glands or nerve clusters along the spine.
• Wilms Tumor: A type of kidney cancer that primarily affects young children.
• Lymphoma: Cancer that starts in the lymph nodes and lymphatic system, including two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
• Sarcomas: Cancers that develop in bones, muscles, and soft tissues, including osteosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma.
• Retinoblastoma: A rare eye cancer that mostly affects very young children.

Children’s Hospital Colorado treats patients with many more cancers and related diseases than those listed above. If your child has been diagnosed with cancer or you need more information about Children Colorado’s services, please contact the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children's Hospital Colorado:

 720-777-6740